Priority refers to the first formal application filed by a trademark applicant in any member country of the Paris Convention. When applying to other member States within six months, the latter application enjoys the priority of the first formal application date. This can enjoy practical benefits for applicants who want to be protected in several countries at the same time. The priority principle is an important principle stipulated in the Paris Convention. Enterprises in China shall apply to the Trademark Office for issuing priority certificates.

China officially became a member of the Paris Pact in September 1985, and the priority principle is the obligation of all members. China gives priority to nationals of other member countries, and China applicants who apply for trademark registration in other member countries also enjoy priority treatment. Applicants can have enough time to prepare their applications in other member countries within six months after submitting their applications in their own countries. And it can prevent others from applying first and losing the opportunity to obtain trademark registration.

trade mark registration