This is a step by step guide to intellectual property strategy and protection before, during and after a trade fair or exhibition in China.
Trade fairs represent an opportunity for SMEs to showcase their products and act as a gateway to the Chinese market. Although attending a trade fair or exhibition in China can reap substantial benefits, SMEs should be aware of the associated IP risks. Protecting IP at a trade fair requires preparation, often months in advance. Trade fairs should not be considered as an opportunity to ‘catch’ infringers since the exhibitors present may not be the source producers of the infringing products. If you discover that your product is being infringed and even though enforcement action is often available at trade fairs, using the opportunity to collect evidence for enforcement action after the trade fair is just as important. Whether you decide to take enforcement action during or after a trade fair, thorough preparation before attending a trade fair should be integrated into a broader IPR enforcement and protection strategy.
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