Chapter 11: 2025 Fee Schedule

The following fee schedule is based on the CNIPA fee standards effective as of 2025. All fees are denominated in Chinese Yuan (CNY). Electronic filing enjoys a 10% discount on the standard fees where applicable.

11.1 Trademark Application Fees

Note: Electronic filing enjoys a 10% discount (CNY 270 vs. CNY 300). One application covers one class only. Additional classes require separate applications.

11.2 Trademark Renewal Fees

11.3 Opposition and Review Fees

11.4 Change and Assignment Fees

11.5 Special Trademark Types

11.6 Other Fees

11.7 Examination Timeline Summary

11.8 2024 Trademark Statistics

According to CNIPA's 2024 annual statistics: Total trademark applications filed: approximately 4.78 million; Total trademark registrations granted: approximately 2.12 million; Valid registered trademarks in China: over 50 million; Trademark opposition cases filed: approximately 145,000; TRAB review cases received: approximately 185,000. China remains the world's largest trademark filing jurisdiction by volume.

With a clear understanding of fees and timelines, foreign applicants face additional considerations unique to their status. The final chapter addresses the special requirements, procedural nuances, and strategic recommendations specifically tailored for foreign entities seeking trademark protection in China.

Chapter 12: Special Requirements for Foreign Applicants

12.1 Mandatory Representation

Foreign applicants who do not have a habitual residence or business establishment in China must appoint a qualified Chinese trademark agent to file applications and conduct proceedings before CNIPA. The agent must be a member of the China Trademark Association and hold a valid practicing license. Self-representation is not permitted for foreign entities.

12.2 Document Authentication

Foreign applicants must submit notarized and legalized corporate documents (certificate of incorporation, business license) or individual identification documents. Documents from countries that are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention require an Apostille. Documents from non-member countries require consular legalization through the Chinese embassy or consulate.

12.3 Priority Claims for Foreign Applicants

Foreign applicants may claim priority based on a first filing in a Paris Convention member country within 6 months of the first filing. The priority claim must be made at the time of the China application or within 3 months thereafter. A certified copy of the priority document and a verified Chinese translation are required.

12.4 Madrid Protocol International Registration

Foreign applicants may designate China through an international registration under the Madrid Protocol. The application is filed through the applicant's home IP office and transmitted to WIPO, which notifies CNIPA. CNIPA examines the designation under the same standards as direct national applications. The average processing time is 12-18 months.

12.5 Language Requirements

All documents filed with CNIPA must be in Chinese. Foreign-language documents must be accompanied by certified Chinese translations. The applicant is responsible for the accuracy of translations; errors in translation may result in procedural delays or unfavorable decisions.

12.6 Strategic Considerations for Foreign Brands

Foreign brands entering the Chinese market should consider the following strategies: (1) File early—China follows a first-to-file system, and trademark squatting is common; (2) Register the Chinese equivalent of the brand name, even if the primary brand is in English; (3) Monitor for bad faith filings and take prompt action; (4) Register in key classes covering core products and related services; (5) Maintain evidence of use for potential non-use cancellation defenses.

12.7 Bad Faith Registration Risks

Trademark squatting remains a significant risk in China. Bad faith registrants may file applications for foreign brands that have not yet entered the Chinese market, then demand payment for assignment or engage in counterfeiting. Foreign applicants should: (1) Conduct pre-market trademark searches; (2) File applications before publicizing market entry plans; (3) Monitor the Trademark Gazette for conflicting applications; (4) Be prepared to file oppositions or invalidation actions promptly.

12.8 Cross-Border E-Commerce Considerations

For foreign brands selling into China through cross-border e-commerce platforms (Tmall Global, JD Worldwide, Kaola), trademark registration in China is typically required for platform admission. Even if products are shipped from overseas, having a China trademark registration strengthens enforcement options against counterfeiters operating within China.

Appendices

Appendix A: Useful CNIPA Links

CNIPA Trademark Office: https://sbj.cnipa.gov.cn | Trademark Comprehensive Search: https://sbj.cnipa.gov.cn/sbcx/ | Electronic Application System: https://sbj.cnipa.gov.cn/wssq/ | Trademark Gazette: https://sbj.cnipa.gov.cn/sbgg/ | TRAB: https://sbj.cnipa.gov.cn/trade/ | Fee Schedule: https://sbj.cnipa.gov.cn/sbsq/sfbz/

Appendix B: Glossary

CNIPA = China National Intellectual Property Administration | CTMO = China Trademark Office | TRAB = Trademark Review and Adjudication Board | Nice Classification = International Classification of Goods and Services | PCT = Patent Cooperation Treaty (not directly applicable to trademarks; Madrid Protocol applies) | IR = International Registration (Madrid Protocol) | OA = Office Action | FTO = Freedom to Operate

Appendix C: Report Disclaimer

This report is prepared by IPspeedy for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Chinese trademark laws and practices are subject to continuous change, and specific cases should be referred to qualified Chinese trademark attorneys or agents. The fee information in this report is based on CNIPA's 2025 fee schedule; CNIPA may adjust fees at any time, and applicants should verify current fees on the official CNIPA website. IPspeedy assumes no liability for decisions made based on the information contained herein.