XIAMEN, March 6, 2025 — Akuino, founder of Guocai (国材), was invited to speak at the China Stone Association annual meeting, held at the Xiamen International Convention and Exhibition Center. Serving as a legal advisor to the association since 2020,during last 5 years Akuino has delivered more than 150 legal services to its members, making him a seasoned voice on intellectual property (IP) protection in China's stone and mining sector.
During the meeting, Akuino addressed the IP challenges emerging from the industry's rapid digital transformation, including stone CNC robots, AI-driven production systems, and unmanned (lights-out) factories, as well as intellectual property protection in mining development. He highlighted the growing need to secure patents and copyrights for automation technologies before they enter mass production.
For stone enterprises expanding overseas, Akuino presented a practical roadmap covering Chinese customs IP recordal, overseas trademark registration, and patent protection, helping exporters enforce their rights both at home and abroad. The session drew strong interest from manufacturers and exporters planning to grow beyond China's borders.
1. How do I file IP protection with Chinese customs?
Apply online through the General Administration of Customs' IP protection system and provide proof of your trademark, patent, or copyright ownership.
2. What IP protection does China provide to foreign enterprises? China gives Foreign businesses can register IP directly in China or via international routes such as PCT and Madrid. Trade secrets are also protected under the Anti-Unfair Competition Law.
3. How should a patent enter China for registration?
Foreign applicants can file through the PCT route or directly with the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA).
4. What should I do if an agent pre-registered (squatted) my trademark?
Act quickly to file an opposition or invalidation request with CNIPA, arguing prior rights and bad-faith registration.
5. Are foreign patents protected in China?
No — patent rights are territorial, so a foreign patent alone is not enforceable in China. You must file a Chinese application (or designate China via PCT) and obtain a Chinese grant. Once granted, your patent is protected under Chinese law just like a domestic one.
6. What IP protection measures apply to AI in China?
China protects AI-related inventions, software, and generated content under existing patent, copyright, and trade secret laws, with dedicated examination guidelines for AI algorithms.
