Valued Guidance Along The Way

Back Enterprises applying for mainland patents or trademarks must engage the services of agents. "We register patents and trademarks for them. If a domestic firm wishes to apply for a patent overseas, we will secure an agent there for them," Jiang says. Mainland patents are not quick. Design and utility patents take about a year. For those on inventions, 2-3 years or more is routine. Jiang believes the wait is worthwhile to protect valuable technology. Recently, mainland patent, trademark and copyright laws have been strengthened to meet international standards. "This was necessary to satisfy requirements under the Agreement on Trade-Related Intellectual Property Rights as part of admission to the World Trade Organization," Jiang says. He expects a flood of business as overseas companies rush to stake territory on the mainland. "More domestic and overseas companies are establishing joint ventures to explore business opportunities together." Mainland enterprises, in their booming economy, should account for an expanding share of business. Years ago, domestic mainland Chinese firms produced lower-value products. Now they are able to make a lot of hi-tech items like computers or mobile phones for sale in Hong Kong and overseas markets,"Jiang says. Although China Patent Agent (HK) Ltd's licensing business is small compared to patents and trademarks, it does offer legal expertise on licensing agreements. "We draw up and review agreements to ensure they satisfy both parties and local laws," Jiang explains. The company provides no partner-search services. "We just handle legal aspects. Overseas companies usually find potential partners and then approach us to draw up the agreement," Jiang says.   The business of guiding Chinese mainland and overseas companies through all the legal steps necessary to protect their brands and inventions is expanding rapidly.     Back