Introduction for China Trademark Renewal
For businesses with registered trademarks in China, timely renewal is crucial. Trademark rights in China are valid for 10 years and must be renewed before expiry to avoid losing exclusive use and legal protections. This article provides a full guide to China trademark renewal—covering procedures, deadlines, common issues, and expert tips to keep your brand rights active and secure.
What Is China Trademark Renewal?
Renewal Process and Requirements in China
Key Benefits of Trademark Renewal in China
Why You Need a Trademark Agent？
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
FAQ For China Trademark Renewal
What Is China Trademark Renewal?
Trademark renewal in China refers to the legal process of extending the exclusive trademark rights for another 10 years before the current term expires.
There is no limit to the number of renewals, as long as they are filed on time.
Why Renewal Matters？
Failure to renew leads to loss of trademark protection in China. Once expired, the mark can no longer be used to claim infringement or exclusivity. In short, anyone will be able to use your brand name in the market.
Renewal Process and Requirements in China
- Application Window： 12 months before expiration; 6-month grace period (with extra fee) after expiry date.
- Required Documents：Trademark number, renewal application form, Applicant’s ID, power of attorney.
- Authority: China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA)
- Review Type： Formality check only (no substantive examination).
- Processing Time： Approx. 2 months.
- Result：Renewal notice and published after approval.
Key Benefits of Trademark Renewal in China
✅ Fast Processing: Only formal examination needed.
✅ Lower Risk: Avoid reapplying and facing possible rejection.
✅ Continued Protection: Keep your brand legally protected without disruption.
✅ Strategic Planning: Maintain long-term market entry flexibility in China.
✅ Sustaining and Enhancing Brand Value：By renewing a trademark, businesses can preserve and extend this hard-earned brand equity, ensuring continued trust and value in the marketplace.
Why You Need a China Trademark Agent？
According to China’s Trademark Law, foreign entities must file renewal through a qualified local agent.
This ensures proper legal handling and timely submission.
Benefits of Using a Professional Agent
- Familiarity with local laws and procedures
- Timely reminders for upcoming renewals
- Risk reduction through professional oversight
- Strategic advice tailored to Chinese market entry
Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
❗ Missed Deadline: Often caused by staff turnover or lack of internal tracking.
❗ No Reminder System: Leads to expiration and potential legal loss.
Suggested Approach:
✅ Set up a trademark monitoring system
✅ Delegate to a trusted trademark agent
✅ Plan renewals at least 12 months in advance
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Renewal vs. Re-Application
Renewal
- Review Process：Formality check only. (Very low rejection risk）
- Cost & Time： Faster and lower cost.
- Rights Continuity： No disruption in legal protection Possible gap in rights.
- Recommendation： Always choose renewal when eligible Only reapply if renewal is missed.
Re-Application
- Review Process：Full substantive examination. (Higher rejection risk）
- Cost & Time： Longer wait and higher cost.
- Rights Continuity：Start over .
- Recommendation：Only reapply if renewal is missed
FAQ For China Trademark Renewal
Q1: Should I renew even if I’m not currently using the mark in China?
A: Yes. Even if the mark isn’t in use, renewing maintains your exclusive rights and prevents others from registering it. This keeps your future market options open.
Q2: Can I just re-apply later when I plan to use?
A: Not recommended. A new application faces full review and may be rejected due to conflicting prior marks. You also lose continuity of protection.
Q3: How much does renewal cost?
A: The official fee is approx. USD70 （RMB 500）. During the 6-month grace period, the cost doubles to Approx. USD140（RMB 1,000）
Conclusion: Don’t Risk Losing Your Brand Rights
Trademark renewal in China may seem procedural, but it is a critical part of protecting your brand assets. Missing a renewal window could cost your business far more in lost value and legal exposure. Act early—don’t wait for expiry to find out you’re too late.
Ready to secure your trademark renewal in China?
Contact our trademark consultants today for proactive renewal reminders and one-stop agent support—protecting your brand from lapses or legal risks.