Articles

Guide to Understanding Certification Marks in Hong Kong SAR What is a Certification Mark? A certification mark is a specialized category of trademark used to guarantee that a product or service meets specific defined standards. It certifies key attributes including: Origin: e.g., made in Scotland. Materials or Ingredients: e.g., whisky […]

Safeguarding Intellectual Property: Trademark Ownership After Company Dissolution in Hong Kong vs. Singapore When a business winds down or is struck off the registry, intellectual property (IP) is frequently overlooked. While physical inventory, bank accounts, and real estate are carefully liquidated or distributed, valuable intangible assets like registered trademarks are […]

Protect Your Brand in Southeast Asia: First-to-File Determines Who Owns the Rights What is the First-to-File Rule? In many Southeast Asian countries, trademark rights go to the first person to register, even if someone else has been using the brand longer. Act early—protect what’s yours! Early registration safeguards your brand […]

Hong Kong Trademark Opposition Q: Who may file an Opposition to a trademark application? Section 44 of the Trade Marks Ordinance (Cap. 559) provides that “any” person may give notice to the Registrar of opposition to the registration of a trade mark as an Opponent. The only qualification to this […]

Note: This leaflet is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice

Intellectual Property Dispute Enforcement in Hong Kong A Practical Guide for Brand Owners & Businesses Protecting your brand in Hong Kong is both practical and effective, with clear legal pathways available to address infringement and enforce your rights. What Rights Are Protected? Hong Kong protects both registered and unregistered rights, […]

Notice on Updating the “Domestic Recipient Address” for China Trademark Updates of China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) Trade Mark Document Service Rules, and Official Service Rule Explanation： When the CNIPA issues trade mark–related legal documents, the only official address used for service is the “Domestic Recipient Address” recorded in […]