CNIPA Highlights Critical Aspects Of Trademark Assignment In Published Guidelines

In China, trademark assignment is regulated by a filing system, which means that assignees can only obtain trademark rights after the application for assignment has been filed, approved and published by the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA).

To assist parties in understanding the relevant legal provisions and examination procedures for trademark assignment and to guide them in following the principle of good faith, the CNIPA has published the Guidelines on Trademark Assignment Procedures. Given that assignees often pay high fees to acquire trademarks, it is crucial to understand these guidelines in order to protect their interests in trademark assignment matters.