China Trademark Renewal Guide 2025: Process, Fees & Requirements
Table of Contents
What is China Trademark Renewal?
Trademark renewal refers to the process where a trademark registrant goes through the required procedures before the expiration of their registered trademark’s validity period to extend the trademark rights. According to China’s Trademark Law, registered trademarks are valid for 10 years, calculated from the date of approval of registration.
Why Renew Your China Trademark?
Renewal is not just a legal formality but a critical measure to maintain brand continuity and market recognition. Failure to renew can result in:
- Loss of trademark rights and legal protection
- Diminishment of brand value accumulated over years
- Risk of trademark squattering or competitor registration
- Potential market confusion and loss of consumer trust
Industry data shows that approximately 15% of trademarks fail to be renewed on time annually, with about 30% of these eventually being registered by other parties, causing significant losses to the original rights holders.
Renewal Timeline & Deadlines
Trademark renewal in China has specific timeframes that are critical to understand:
| Period | Timeframe | Implications |
|---|---|---|
| Normal Renewal Period | Within 12 months before expiration | Standard renewal process applies |
| Grace Period | Within 6 months after expiration | Additional late fees apply (250 RMB/class) |
| Post-Grace Period | After grace period ends | Trademark will be cancelled and lost |
We recommend initiating the renewal process early in the normal renewal period to allow sufficient time for any necessary corrections or unexpected delays.
Special Requirements for Foreign Companies
Foreign enterprises face additional requirements when renewing trademarks in China:
Additional requirements for foreign applicants include:
- Notarized and legalized Power of Attorney (requirements vary by country)
- Chinese translation of all foreign-language documents
- Certified copies of registration certificates if company details have changed
- Any supporting documents verifying changes in trademark ownership
Required Documents for Trademark Renewal
Proper documentation is essential for successful trademark renewal. The required materials include:
| Document | Description | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Trademark Renewal Application Form | Completed application form | Must be typed or printed; no format alterations allowed |
| Proof of Identity | Business license or personal ID | For companies: business license copy with official seal |
| Trademark Registration Certificate | Copy of registration certificate | If original is lost, reissuance must be requested first |
| Power of Attorney | If using an agency | Must specify agency authority, period, and information |
| Change Proof (if applicable) | Documentation of name/address changes | Required if registrant details have changed |
Fee Structure for Trademark Renewal
The cost of trademark renewal consists of official fees and potential agency service fees:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Official Fee | 500 RMB/class | Standard fee charged by CNIPA |
| E-application Discount | 450 RMB/class | Available for electronic applications |
| Grace Period Surcharge | 250 RMB/class | Additional fee for late renewal |
| Agency Service Fee | 800-1500 RMB/class | Varies by agency size and service scope |
| Expedited Service Fee | 300-500 RMB additional | For priority processing (if available) |
Note: Fees are subject to change by CNIPA. Always verify current fees before application.
Step-by-Step China TradeRenewal Process
The trademark renewal process has been standardized and can be completed online:
1. Preliminary Preparation
- Confirm renewal timing by checking the expiration date on your trademark registration certificate
- Verify that trademark details (name, registration number, classification) match system records
- Gather all required documentation according to the checklist
2. Application Process (Foreign Companies Must Use an Agent)
- Your appointed agency will access the China Patent Electronic Application Network or China Trademark Network
- Select “Renewal Application” under the “Trademark Business” section
- Complete the application form with applicant information, trademark class, and renewal period (10 years)
- Upload required documents as clear scanned copies in PDF or JPG format (single file under 5MB)
- Make payment through supported methods (Alipay, online banking)
3. Examination & Result
- CNIPA examiners review the application
- If materials are incorrect, you have 30 days to make corrections
- Successful applications receive a “Trademark Renewal Certificate”
- The renewed trademark remains valid for another 10 years from the expiration date
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can the trademark still be used during renewal?
A: Yes, trademark rights remain valid during the renewal process, provided the application has been submitted.
Q: Are fees refunded if renewal fails?
A: Official fees are not refundable. Agency service fee refund policies vary and should be clarified beforehand.
Q: What if trademark classification has changed?
A: Classification changes require new registration applications; renewal only maintains rights in the original classes.
Q: How to confirm renewal success?
A: The system issues electronic notices, and status can be checked in the “Trademark Announcement.” Foreign applicants typically receive updates through their agents.
Q: What happens if the grace period is missed?
A: The trademark will be cancelled. While a new application can be filed, it may face obstacles from prior rights or potential squatters.
Professional Tips & Risk Avoidance
To ensure smooth trademark renewal and avoid common pitfalls, consider these recommendations:
- Regularly verify trademark status and registration details at least annually
- Maintain records of trademark use (sales contracts, marketing materials) for potential evidence needs
- Select accredited agencies registered with the China National Intellectual Property Administration
- Consider electronic applications for cost savings and faster processing
- After renewal, properly file the Renewal Certificate with your registration documents
- Update internal intellectual property records following renewal
Publication Date: August 2025 | Copyright © 2025 China Trademark Agency Alliance. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific cases, please consult with a qualified trademark professional.
China Trademark Agency Alliance
CTMAA is more than just a China tradmark registration service provider; we are your strategic partner for entering and establishing yourself in the Chinese market. We are dedicated to clearing obstacles, using our professionalism, experience, and integrity to safeguard your brand in China.
