New Domain Name Dispute Resolution Measures

In line with China’s declared intention to improve its laws and procedures for the protection of intellectual property rights, China Internet Network Information Center ("CINIC") published the Measures for Resolving Domain Name Disputes ("Measures") on 14 February 2006, which came into effect on 17 March 2006. These Measures regulate disputes arising from CN domain names and Chinese domain names administered by the CINIC. The Measures will supersede the Measures for Domain Name Dispute Resolution published on 20 September 2002.

The Measures are applicable to disputes resulting from registration or use of domain names. Pursuant to the Measures, all disputes concerning CN and Chinese domain names must be accepted and resolved by dispute resolution institutions recognised by CINIC. Any organisation or individual who considers a registered CN or Chinese domain name as conflicting with its legitimate interests may lodge a complaint with any of the dispute