A trademark is a distinctive sign that a specific individual or enterprise produces or provides goods or services. The origin of trademarks can be traced back to ancient times, when craftsmen printed their signatures or "marks" on their works of art or practical products. With the passage of time, these marks have evolved into today's trademark registration and protection system. This system helps consumers identify and buy a product or service, because the nature and quality of the product or service indicated by the unique trademark on the product or service meet their needs. According to the Trademark Law of People's Republic of China (PRC) (200 1 Revision), visible signs (including words, graphics, letters, numbers, three-dimensional signs and color combinations, and the combination of the above elements) can distinguish their own goods (including services) from those of others. In most cases, a trademark can be registered without registration.

What is the function of trademarks? Trademarks protect trademark registrants by ensuring that they have the exclusive right to mark goods or services or license others to use them for compensation. The term of protection varies, but after the expiration, the trademark can be renewed indefinitely as long as an extra fee is paid. Trademark protection shall be implemented by the court. In most systems, the court has the right to stop trademark infringement. Broadly speaking, trademarks reward trademark registrants to gain recognition and economic benefits, thus promoting the positive and enterprising spirit of the world. Trademark protection can also prevent unfair competitors, such as counterfeiters, from using similar distinctive signs to promote inferior or different products or services. This system enables skilled and enterprising people to produce and sell goods and services under as fair a condition as possible, thus promoting the development of international trade.