Recent Trends On Trademark Non-Use Cancellation Applications In China

In recent years, China has witnessed a surge in trademark non-use cancellation applications due to the rising number of trademark registrations, resulting numerous similar trademarks blocks the new filed trademarks. However, this surge has been accompanied by widespread abuse of the non-use cancellation process, with some applicants submitting bulk malicious requests to disrupt legitimate trademark management or profit from speculative actions. It is alleged that a mark was attacked by third parties through non-use cancellation actions for over 60 times.

To address this issue, the National Intellectual Property Administration, PRC ("CNIPA") has tightened formal review requirements for such applications, imposing stricter standards for preliminary evidence submission.