Andrea_liang

Seasoned IP Attorney & Litigator

A Quick Dive into How China Timestamp Forensics Serves as a Guardian of IP Rights

For foreign companies aiming to safeguard their intellectual property in China, collecting reliable evidence can feel like a daunting task—especially when violations happen away from public attention. Traditionally, notarization has been the preferred method, but it often requires significant time and financial resources. Now, a groundbreaking court ruling has approved a new, efficient alternative: Trusted […]

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Cleansing the Shadows of Bad Faith? Exploring the Rule and Its Exception in Article 44 of the China Trademark Law

Insights from the Hualing HUALING Saga on Trademark Transfers In today’s environment of increasingly strict intellectual property protection in China, trademarks have become more important than ever as key corporate assets. Nevertheless, malicious activities related to trademark registration, such as hoarding and squatting, continue to pose challenges that disrupt market order. Article 44, Paragraph 1

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The 2025 George Patton Metaverse Trademark Showdown: What Led a Virtual Car to Rack Up a RMB 1 Million Fine?

On July 21, 2025, the Hangzhou Intermediate Court delivered a second-instance ruling in the trademark infringement and unfair competition dispute concerning the George Patton brand Case No.: (2024) Zhe 01 Min Zhong 10520. This landmark case, recognized as the first involving metaverse virtual reality trademarks, has garnered widespread attention. The court not only upheld the

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Exploring the Groundbreaking Case of China First Virtual Digital Human IP Dispute: Insights and Industry Impact

Recently, the Beijing Internet Court delivered its first-instance verdict in China inaugural copyright infringement case related to virtual digital humans. This groundbreaking ruling marks a significant step forward in protecting intellectual property rights for digital humans in China. It provides crucial legal clarity for international companies involved in virtual digital human projects within the Chinese

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Rising Refusal Rates for Trademark Applications in China: Insights into Changing Examination Standards and Strategic Considerations

Understanding CNIPA Stricter Trademark Examination Policies and Their Impact on Brands From 2024, the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), which oversees the Trademark Office (TMO) and the Trademark Review and Adjudication Board (TRAB), introduced significantly stricter examination criteria for new trademark applications. This policy change has led to a notable increase in refusals based

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Triumph in Court: How Trademark Prior Use Won the Day in a Landmark Infringement Battle

Case Notes: A Landmark Victory in Prior Use Trademark Defense In the summer of 2024, an urgent matter interrupted my routine work. Zhejiang MEEC Company, a reputable enterprise with nearly 20 years in the electroplating industry, faced a significant trademark infringement lawsuit. A Beijing-based company, holding the registered MEEC trademark, claimed damages of US$10Million, threatening

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Overview of Challenges and Solutions in IP Protection of Furniture Design

In the world of upholstered furniture, crafting pieces with unique flair hinges not just on premium materials like leather and fabric, but also on the artistry embedded in detailed design blueprints. Yet, amid fierce battles in the raw materials arena, some suppliers take a darker path—snatching original design sketches without permission. These stolen designs are

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Navigating Contract Disputes in China: Lessons from an International Buyer’s Experience

For international buyers operating in China, contract disputes present unique challenges that require careful navigation of the local legal landscape. Our recent experience with a breach of contract case offers valuable insights into this complex process. Overview of the Breach of Contract Case While we always strive to work with dependable and responsible suppliers, sometimes

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Chinese brands broadening horizons through international purchases

In recent years, an increasing number of Chinese brands have confidently entered the international market by acquiring well-known foreign brands. Today, renowned names such as Arc’teryx, G-III, Paladin, Bogner, and THG—previously celebrated worldwide—are now proudly included in the portfolios of Chinese companies. These brands have been integrated into a strategic framework developed by Chinese enterprises,

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Trademark Battles Among Business Partners: Who Truly Owns trademark Rights to Barizam?

The Supreme Court delivered a final decision regarding the trademark ownership and infringement dispute between Heilongjiang Chuanfeng Co and Russia Balizam concerning the Barizam trademarks. The Court overturned the previous rulings from the lower courts, affirming that the Barizam series trademarks registered in China rightfully belong to Russia Barizamm Company, and has ordered the transfer

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