Online Trademark Application System Upgraded

The Trademark Office of the State Administration for Industry and Commerce recently announced that its online trademark application system has been upgraded to process a wider range of applications submitted by multiple categories of applicants (see announcement in Chinese). In terms of the scope of applications, the new system has been enhanced from only accepting applications from trademark agents to cover trademark agents, domestic applicants, foreigners having ordinary residence or business office in China, and foreign enterprises. The system’s service scope will gradually extend beyond trademark registration applications to applications for renewal, assignment, deregistration and alteration of trademarks.

The upgraded online trademark application system was launched on 10 March 2017 and fees are paid online. Currently only trademark registration applications are accepted.