July 9, 2010

On July 6, Deputy Director General of the State Administration for Industry and Commerce, Mr. Fu Shuangjian, said at the Opening Ceremony of the 2nd Trademark Strategy Training Program that the examination period of trademark applications would be shortened to twelve months – only one third the period three years ago.

China has ranked first since 2002 with respect to the number of trademark applications filed in each year. However, the number of pending cases concerning trademark applications and requests for review of trademarks has accumulated throughout the years due to the lack of examiners; as a result the period needed for examination and review of trademarks was greatly prolonged. In order to change this situation, the State Administration for Industry and Commerce has taken a series of measures to enhance the capability of the examiners and shortened said period from the original three years to the present one year. According to the strategic plan, the period will be further shortened to ten months by 2012 to better facilitate the development of the enterprises.

Watson & Band’s trademark department and attorneys are maintaining good communications with the administrative authorities, and based on a sufficient understanding of the clients’ needs, may efficiently, professionally and successfully go through the various matters entrusted by the clients, including trademark applications. If you are interested in or have any questions concerning trademark rights, please contact us by email at mail@watson-band.com.cn.