China Law Key Words · Intellectual Property
Patents
Securing and enforcing patent rights in China—invention, utility model, and design pathways, portfolio strategy, and litigation/administrative options.
- Types invention · UM · design
- File CNIPA pathways
- Enforce courts & admin
- Counsel directory
What patent practice covers
From invention disclosure to market enforcement
Patent categories
Invention, utility model, and design—speed, examination, and strength trade-offs.
Portfolio design
What to file in China first, continuations, and defensive publications.
Freedom to operate
Clearance searches before manufacturing or launch.
Litigation & admin
Injunction themes, damages, and administrative enforcement options.
Start with these guides
Flagship explainers and practical orientation
China patent protection
Invention, utility model, and design patents explained.
Read guide →OverviewChina IP law guide
Broader IP orientation including patents.
Open →ParentIP keyword hub
Full intellectual property centre.
Open →RelatedTrade secrets
When secrecy beats (or complements) patents.
Open →RelatedTrademarks
Brand protection alongside technology rights.
Open →RelatedUnfair competition
Complementary enforcement theories.
Open →Patent plan for China manufacturing
File where you make and where you sell
- Capture inventions before disclosure Public demos and sales can destroy novelty.
- Choose the right patent type mix Utility models can be strategic for speed in China.
- Run FTO before tooling spend Injunction risk is a factory problem, not only a legal one.
- Align employee invention rules Service invention ownership must be contractual and compliant.
- Monitor competitors’ publications Opposition and invalidation windows matter.
- Budget enforcement evidence early Notarised purchases and technical comparisons win cases.
Related topics & directories
Continue into neighbouring practice areas
Frequently asked questions
Orientation only—not legal advice
Is a US/EP patent enough for China?
No. Patent rights are territorial. China protection generally requires China filings (or valid PCT national phase entry).
Why file utility models?
Faster grant and tactical enforcement in some product categories—balanced against validity challenges.
Should everything be patented instead of kept secret?
Not always. Process know-how may be better as a trade secret if reverse engineering is hard.
When do we need a patent lawyer?
Portfolio strategy, FTO, or infringement disputes. Use the patent lawyer directory.
Need China patent counsel?
Connect with verified IP lawyers or start with the patent protection guide.
Directory and legal information only—not legal advice. No attorney–client relationship is formed by using this site. Rules and thresholds change; verify current requirements for your facts and jurisdiction.
Guides & articles
Practical writing from counsel and the portal editorial team on this topic