Obtaining the certificate is only the starting point of trademark management. Four things must be done going forward: use the trademark properly and preserve evidence, file changes promptly, renew before expiry, and continuously monitor infringement and squatting—none can be omitted.
1. Use Properly and Preserve Evidence
Use the registered trademark genuinely on the approved goods or services without altering its distinctive features on your own. Under Article 49 of the Trademark Law, non-use for three consecutive years without justification may lead to revocation, so systematically preserve use evidence such as contracts, invoices, packaging, advertising, and exhibition records.
2. File Changes Promptly When Name or Address Changes
After a company rename or relocation, promptly file a change application under Article 41 to avoid failed delivery of official documents, obstacles to enforcement, or even orders to correct within a time limit.
3. Renew Before Expiry
The validity period is ten years. Under Article 40, renewal should be completed within the twelve months before expiry, with a six-month grace period. Set a reminder one year before expiry and prepare in advance.
4. Monitor Continuously
Regularly monitor applications for identical or similar trademarks and market infringements; file oppositions or invalidation requests promptly when squatting is found, and complain and enforce promptly when infringement is found, engaging a professional agency for routine monitoring when necessary.
5. How to Get Help
In such situations, it is advisable to consult a recorded agent through MyTMBee first to assess whether trademark monitoring is needed before deciding on the next step.