Legal
March 21, 2026
12 min read
Sharing your product designs with Chinese manufacturers is necessary for production, but it also creates risk. Without proper protection, your designs could be copied, sold to competitors, or used to create competing products.
This guide shows you how to protect your intellectual property when sourcing from China.
Key Principle: First-to-file wins in China. Register your IP in China before sharing designs, or you may lose protection.
1. Register Trademarks in China
�?Why Register in China
- China is first-to-file, not first-to-use
- Someone else can register your brand
- Essential for enforcement
- Prevents trademark squatting
How to Register
- Search existing trademarks (CTMO database)
- File application with CNIPA
- Wait 9-12 months for approval
- Monitor for infringements
⚠️ Register Before Manufacturing
Don't wait until you have a problem. Register trademarks before starting production discussions.
2. File Patents in China
For inventions and designs:
- Invention Patents: 20 years protection
- Utility Models: 10 years, faster approval
- Design Patents: 15 years for appearance
3. Use Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs)
📝 NDA Best Practices
- Use Chinese-language NDAs
- Include non-compete clauses
- Define confidential information clearly
- Set time periods (3-5 years)
- Specify jurisdiction (Chinese courts)
4. Control Information Flow
- Don't share complete designs initially
- Split manufacturing between suppliers
- Keep critical components in-house
- Share only what's necessary for quotes
5. Monitor and Enforce
- Regular marketplace monitoring
- Watch for counterfeit products
- Act quickly on infringements
- Build relationships with IP lawyers
Need IP Protection Help?
We help you navigate IP protection in China. From trademark registration to NDA enforcement.
Protect Your IP