A “Well-known Trademark” refers to a trademark that “widely known to the relating public and enjoys high reputation”, according to The Regulation on Recognition and Protection of Well-known Trademarks (2003).

Where there is a dispute over the registrability or infringement of involving an un-registered trademark or trademarks registered or used in non-similar goods or services, the State Administration for Industry and Commerce (“SAIC”), the Trademark Review and Adjudication Board (“TRAB”) or a civil court may recognize a mark as a well-known trademark on case basis. The trademark being recognized as well known may stop others from using or registering identical or similar trademarks on non-similar goods /services, classes, or company names. So far, less than 600 domestic and international trademarks had been recognized as well known.

HFG has successfully helped clients with their trademarks recognized as well known.