Register a Trademark in Hongkong

As a freest international business centre, Hongkong has been the top prior choice for many businesses. Registering a trademark in Hong Kong is a crucial step for businesses aiming to protect their brand identity in one of Asia’s most dynamic commercial hubs. A registered trademark provides exclusive rights to use the mark in connection with specified goods or services and serves as a valuable asset for brand recognition, enforcement, and licensing.

Why it is Necessary to Register Trademarks in Hong Kong

Although trademark rights can arise from use, registration provides stronger legal protection. Key benefits include:

• Exclusive Rights: Ownership of the mark for specified goods/services.
• Legal Protection: Easier enforcement against infringement or unauthorized use.
• Business Asset: Registered trademarks can be assigned, licensed, or used as collateral.
• Customs Protection: Ability to record the trademark with Hong Kong Customs to prevent counterfeit goods.

Who could Register a Trademark

There is no limits on the nationality of the applicant for a Hongkong trademark. Any individual or legal entity—whether based in Hong Kong or overseas—can apply to register a trademark in Hong Kong. This includes local businesses, foreign companies, and even individuals operating as sole proprietors. There is no requirement for the applicant to have a physical presence in Hong Kong. However, if the applicant does not have a local address, they must appoint a local representative or agent to handle correspondence with the Intellectual Property Department.

Who Help with Trademark Application Fillings

Before filling, you may turn to professional agencies like Tannet for intellectual property services. Since 1999, Tannet has dedicated to tailor-made trademark, patent and copyright services in Hongkong and any other areas globally, not limited to registration fillings, cancellation, and enforcement to renewal and assignment.

What Documents are Required for Trademark Registration

To apply for a trademark in Hong Kong, the following information and documents are typically required:

• Applicant’s Information: Name, address, and nationality (individual or company).
• Trademark Representation: A clear image of the mark (word, logo, or combined).
• List of Goods and/or Services: Classification according to the Nice Classification system.
• Priority Claim (if any): If the applicant is claiming priority based on a foreign application, details and documents of that filing must be provided.

How to Process a Trademark Registration

The registration procedure is handled by the Intellectual Property Department (IPD) of the Hong Kong SAR Government and includes the following steps:

• Filing the Application: Submit registration form along with the prescribed fee. The application can be filed online or in paper form.
• Formalities Examination: The IPD checks whether the application meets all the filing requirements.
• Substantive Examination: The examiner reviews the mark to ensure it complies with legal requirements, such as distinctiveness and non-conflict with earlier marks.
• Publication: If accepted, the trademark is published in the Hong Kong Intellectual Property Journal for a 3-month opposition period.
• Registration: If no oppositions are filed, or if oppositions are resolved in the applicant’s favor, the trademark will be registered and a certificate will be issued.

How Long a Hongkong Trademark is Valid

A registered trademark in Hong Kong is valid for 10 years from the date of filing and can be renewed indefinitely for further 10-year periods, provided the renewal fee is paid before expiration.

In addiiton to Hongkong trademark services, Tannet could provide with one-stop Honkong business start-up and follow-up services like accounting and tax return filling and related consulting. Should you have further query, please feel free to contact Tannet through visiting https://tannet-group.net/ or calling at 00852-27837818.