On July 14th, the State Administration for Industry and Commerce issued notification to introduce reform to simplify trademark registration.
As part of pilot programs, it will be possible submit applications for brands outside of Beijing in cities like Ya’an (Sichuan) or Taizhou (Zhejiang). In addition, online agencies will be authorized to process applications for registration, renewal, assignment, cancellation and modification of trademarks.
The reform will simplify and optimize related registration procedures. The notice will be released within three months, shortened from six months. Finally, clearer guidelines about which products and services are allowed and which requests for application documents consist, shall simplify the registration process.
One reason for this reform probably lies in the country’s slowing economic growth. Simplified trademark registrations can motivate companies to increasingly invest in the development of new brands in China.
