CNIPA Office Issues Operational Guidance for Technology and Innovation Support Centers (TISC)

The CNIPA Office Issues the Operational Guidance for Technology and Innovation Support Centers (TISC). The Operational Guidance for Technology and Innovation Support Centers (TISC) focuses on serving national innovation strategies by establishing a three-tiered system of "Basic Services—Focused Services—Synergistic Services":

Basic Services provide standardized support (e.g., retrieval, consultation, legal awareness) to the public and SMEs;

Focused Services target specialized and innovative entities (e.g., "Little Giants" enterprises), advancing high-quality creation, high-efficiency utilization (e.g., patent commercialization, open licensing), and high-standard protection (e.g., infringement early-warning) through patent navigation, technology mining, and risk assessment;

Synergistic Services establish regional collaboration networks and international cooperation mechanisms to drive regional innovation. Concurrently, it enhances capacity building (e.g., developing AI-powered tools, expanding offline service stations, training professionals) and strengthens governance (e.g., CNIPA optimizing resource allocation and evaluation mechanisms, provincial bureaus implementing tiered management, TISCs dynamically adjusting service strategies), comprehensively upgrading IP public service efficacy to bolster sci-tech self-reliance and industrial innovation.

The Guidance, through its systematic three-tier framework, targeted service scenarios, and resource coordination, not only elevates the standardization and professionalism of IP public services but also provides institutional guarantees for innovation-driven development strategies.

ZLWD Commentary：

The release of the 'Interpretation' by the Supreme People's Court and the Supreme People's Procuratorate highlights the judicial system's strong emphasis on criminal protection of intellectual property rights. It also serves as a concrete and systematic response to the substantive content of the Criminal Law Amendment (XI).

By consolidating previously scattered interpretative documents and standardizing legal application, this move aims to enhance judicial efficiency and fairness, and to increase the predictability of the law. This not only addresses the practical needs of innovators for legal protection but also sends a clear message of' severe punishment for infringement and protection of innovation,' which is significant for optimizing the business environment and promoting high-quality development.

The China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) and five other ministries and commissions jointly issued the "Work Guidelines for the Establishment and Operation of Patent Pools."

On June 10, 2025, the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council (SASAC), the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR), and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) jointly issued the "Guidelines for the Construction and Operation of Patent Pools" (hereinafter referred to as the "Guidelines").

The "Guidelines" provide guidance and support for the scientific formation, rational layout, standardized management, and efficient operation of domestic patent pools from aspects such as the functional positioning, construction principles, operational management mechanisms and models, and safeguard measures of patent pools. In response to the current weaknesses in domestic patent pool construction, including the lack of high-level operational institutions, a scarcity of top-tier operational talents, and a shortage of mature experience, as well as unfavorable factors such as weak awareness among enterprises regarding paying for patent licenses, low social recognition of patent licensing operations, and the need to improve international rules for patent pool construction and operation, the "Guidelines" propose key support measures. 

These include encouraging and supporting the establishment of standardized frameworks for patent pools, strengthening business training, talent cultivation, and publicity and exchange activities. The aim is to address the weaknesses and shortcomings in patent pool construction within a relatively short period, guide and popularize the concept of patent pool operations, promote the establishment of fair, reasonable, open, inclusive, and mutually beneficial international rules for patent pool construction and operation, and accelerate the creation of a favorable internal and external environment conducive to the high-quality construction and operation of patent pools.

ZLWD Commentary：

This guideline marks a major institutional step in China's strategy to turn its massive patent portfolio into real industrial value. By promoting standardized, compliant, and transparent patent pools, China aims to reduce IP fragmentation, lower licensing friction, and support emerging industries such as AI, green energy, and telecommunications.

Establishing itself as a rule-shaper in the global IP landscape by aligning patent practices with international standards while addressing domestic innovation needs. For both Chinese and international stakeholders, this creates a clearer and more structured pathway for collaborative IP management and technology transfer.

The CNIPA Updates the Guidelines on “Applications for Cancellation of Registered Trademarks Not Used for Three Consecutive Years Without Justifiable Reasons”

On May 26, the Trademark Office of the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) updated its Guidelines on Applications for Cancellation of Registered Trademarks Not Used for Three Consecutive Years Without Justifiable Reasons. The revised guidelines emphasize that applicants must clearly state the grounds for cancellation, specifying the circumstances under which the disputed trademark has not been used for three consecutive years without valid justification. 

In addition, applicants are now required to submit preliminary evidence of non-use, which may include the trademark owner's business information, market research findings, and supporting materials such as online searches, official website reviews, e-commerce platform records, and on-site investigations.

ZLWD Commentary：

This update to the Guidelines reflects a shift in the trademark cancellation procedure toward a more substantive examination approach. It aims to curb bad-faith filings and abuse of cancellation rights, thereby enhancing the stability of the trademark system and strengthening the protection of legitimate rights holders' interests. 

However, the revisions also raise the evidentiary burden on applicants, setting a higher threshold—particularly for individual applicants and small or medium-sized enterprises. Going forward, close attention should be paid to how clearly and reasonably the evidentiary standards are defined and applied in practice.

The CNIPA has released the 2025 Plan for promoting the construction of a strong intellectual property country

On May 7, 2025, the CNIPA issued the 2025 Action Plan for Building a Strong Intellectual Property Nation, outlining key priorities and tasks for the year. The Plan is structured into seven main sections and sets out 118 specific tasks, each with designated responsible agencies and measures to strengthen implementation.

In terms of legal and regulatory development, the Plan calls for revisions to the Trademark Law and the Implementing Regulations of the Copyright Law, as well as the formulation of new regulations on access to genetic resources and benefit-sharing, and the advancement of legislation to protect traditional Chinese medicine knowledge.

With respect to enforcement, the Plan highlights the need to enhance judicial protection, improve the punitive damages regime for IP infringement, empower prosecutorial authorities to fulfill their comprehensive functions, and intensify crackdowns on infringing activities.

On the utilization front, the Plan emphasizes improving the quality of IP creation, strengthening commercialization and market-oriented operations of IP assets, and promoting deeper integration of the IP system with innovation and industrial chains.

This Action Plan is regarded as a key policy blueprint for advancing China’s transition toward becoming a strong intellectual property nation.

ZLWD Commentary：

The 2025 Action Plan for Building a Strong Intellectual Property Nation demonstrates China’s firm commitment to enhancing the institutional and rule-of-law foundations of its IP system. Covering a wide range of areas—including legislation, enforcement, and utilization—the Plan is highly systematic and operational in nature. Notably, its focus on emerging fields such as traditional knowledge and genetic resources reflects a proactive response to global governance trends.

Six Authorities Jointly Issue the Guidelines for the Establishment and Operation of Patent Pools

On May 13, 2025, the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), together with the Ministry of Science and Technology, Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission of the State Council, State Administration for Market Regulation, and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, jointly issued the Guidelines for the Establishment and Operation of Patent Pools. The Guidelines aim to promote the high-quality development and orderly operation of patent pools, accelerate patent commercialization, foster fair market competition, and cultivate new drivers of productivity.

The Guidelines set out four fundamental principles for patent pools: market orientation, balanced interests, openness, and non-discrimination. These principles are intended to safeguard the rights and interests of both licensors and licensees, ensure reasonable royalty rates, and encourage participation by both domestic and foreign patent holders to achieve fair and transparent licensing.

The Guidelines also provide detailed requirements on operational management, information reporting, and resource integration. They advocate for the establishment of information resource centers, the implementation of training programs and talent development initiatives, and the formation of specialized management teams to enhance the professionalism and standardization of patent pool operations. Overall, the Guidelines aim to provide institutional support for collaborative industrial innovation and the development of a robust innovation ecosystem.

ZLWD Commentary：

The issuance of the Guidelines for the Establishment and Operation of Patent Pools marks a significant step in optimizing China’s intellectual property governance system. It reflects strong policy-level emphasis on improving patent commercialization efficiency and promoting collaborative innovation across industries. By encouraging market-driven operations and strengthening professional management, the Guidelines are expected to break down technological barriers, reduce licensing transaction costs, and provide a boost—particularly for the development of strategic emerging industries.

The Trademark Office has revised the requirements for applying for cancellation of a registered trademark that has not been used for three consecutive years

On May 26, 2025, the CNIPA released revisions to the 'Application for Revocation of Registered Trademarks Not Used for Three Consecutive Years,' further detailing the application process and required materials. The new rules specify that applicants must submit preliminary investigation evidence, including the business scope, status, and market research information of the trademark registrant. Evidence sources can include online searches, market research, and on-site visits.

Applications can be submitted through the online service system, at the registration hall, or by entrusting an agent. After accepting the application, the Trademark Office will notify the applicant to pay the fee; applications not paid will not be processed. Upon payment, the Trademark Office will issue a notice of acceptance and request the trademark registrant to provide evidence of actual use of the trademark, ultimately deciding whether to revoke the trademark. The revision aims to enhance the transparency and efficiency of the revocation process, standardize the submission of application materials, and promote the rational allocation of trademark resources. 

The relevant fee standards and operating guidelines have been updated on the official website of the Trademark Office.

ZLWD Commentary：

This revision enhances the standardization and transparency of the cancellation process by refining the application procedures and evidence requirements, which helps to curb malicious cancellations and protect the legitimate rights of registrants. 

However, for the general public, the difficulty of providing evidence and the complexity of the procedures have significantly increased, potentially raising the practical threshold for trademark clearance. In the long term, the reform aims to improve the efficiency of trademark resource allocation, but its actual effectiveness remains to be seen in practice, particularly in achieving a balance between efficiency, fairness, and convenience.

The 25th China Patent Award – Award Winners Announced

On June 5, the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) announced the award decisions for the 25th China Patent Award, recognizing patentees, inventors, and related entities that have made outstanding contributions to innovation and socio-economic development. This year, 30 invention and utility model patents—including “A Method and Device for Preparing High-Voltage LDMOS Devices” —received the China Patent Gold Award. Additionally, 10 design patents, including the “Automobile”design, were granted the China Design Gold Award. Silver Awards, Excellence Awards, and Organizational Awards were also announced.

Enterprises and institutions from Jiangsu Province won a total of 89 awards, including 3 China Patent Gold Awards, 5 Silver Awards, 73 Excellence Awards, as well as 2 Design Silver Awards and 6 Excellence Awards—ranking among the top nationwide. The Jiangsu Provincial Intellectual Property Office received the “Best Organizational Award” for the fourth consecutive time.

CNIPA called on IP professionals across the country to learn from the awardees and continue advancing the integrated development of intellectual property and technological innovation as part of China’s broader strategy to become a global IP powerhouse.

ZLWD Commentary：

The awarding of the 25th China Patent Award not only demonstrates the continuous improvement of China's intellectual property incentive mechanisms, but also highlights the crucial role of local innovation hubs. Jiangsu Province and other innovation powerhouses have particularly stood out. The award's design balances technical merit with aesthetic value, effectively motivating enterprises and research institutions to enhance their innovation capabilities across multiple dimensions.

The CNIPA promoted the construction of a long-term mechanism for patent transformation and application

The CNIPA recently released the "Notice on Deepening the Special Action for Patent Transformation and Application to Accelerate the Formation of a Long-term Mechanism" (Guo Zhi Fa Yun Zi [2025] No.16). The notice proposes measures such as optimizing policy guidance, strengthening institutional construction, and improving service systems to accelerate the industrialization of patent outcomes and establish a long-term mechanism to promote patent transformation and application. 

It emphasizes that the number of patents should not be the sole evaluation criterion; instead, factors such as patent quality, industrialization status, and contribution to core business operations should be considered in evaluations.

Local authorities are encouraged to promote universities and research institutions to improve their patent management systems, eliminate coarse assessment regulations, and implement pre-application evaluation systems. The notice encourages the exploration of conversion models like 'use first, pay later' and 'open licensing,' aiming to cultivate a batch of patent industrialization model enterprises and patent-intensive products, and to accelerate the establishment of an industry intellectual property cooperation model characterized by information sharing and risk sharing.

Additionally, it promotes the establishment of specialized institutions for technology transfer and intellectual property operation within universities and research institutions, enhancing incentive mechanisms. 

The notice also calls for the improvement of a dynamic management system for patent classification and grading, enhancing patent transformation service capabilities, and building an open, collaborative, and efficient patent transformation and application ecosystem.

ZLWD Commentary：

The Notice directly addresses the persistent issue of patent management, which often prioritizes quantity over quality. It emphasizes a focus on quality and the effectiveness of technology transfer, signaling a shift in China's patent policy from a focus on quantity to one on value realization. By promoting innovative mechanisms such as' use first, pay later,' it aims to overcome barriers to technology transfer and enhance the efficiency of technology transfer by universities and research institutions.

Guangdong has built a whole-chain training system for patent transformation technology managers

The Guangdong Administration for Market Regulation (Intellectual Property Office) recently issued an Implementation Plan to establish a full-process training and deployment system for patent commercialization professionals, aiming to address the shortage of skilled talent and promote the efficient transformation of innovation outcomes.

The proposed system spans five key stages—selection, training, utilization, service, and evaluation:

● Selection: Establishing a registry of qualified technology managers and a database of service recipients;

● Training: Developing a cohort of professionals well-versed in patent law, skilled in patent valuation and risk management, and responsive to market demands;

● Utilization: Promoting resource coordination and information exchange to ensure these professionals play an active role at the front lines of patent commercialization;

● Service: Encouraging the provision of free or low-cost services to improve accessibility and support for innovators;

● Evaluation: Introducing incentive mechanisms to drive high-quality, public-interest service delivery by technology managers.

This initiative is designed to build a skilled, market-responsive workforce capable of supporting Guangdong’s efforts to enhance its patent commercialization infrastructure and advance a more integrated and innovation-driven system.

ZLWD Commentary：

Guangdong Province has established a comprehensive training system for patent commercialization professionals, addressing the pressing challenges of a talent shortage and weak linkages in the patent commercialization process. This full-chain mechanism—from selection to evaluation—forms a closed-loop model that helps transform specialized talent from theory to practice and aligns them more closely with market needs. 

By bridging the“last mile”between universities, research institutions, and industry, the system facilitates smoother technology transfer. Notably, its strong focus on practical application (“use”) and service delivery (“support”) underscores a pragmatic approach centered on demand-driven resource coordination and market-oriented outcomes.