On January 19, the China National Intellectual Property Administration ("CNIPA") issued the Measures for Fast-track Examination of Trademark Registration Applications (for Trial Implementation) (the "Measures"), with effect on the date of issuance.

The Measures allow request for fast-track examination of trademark registration applications in four circumstances including "involving the names of national or provincial major projects, major projects, major scientific and technological infrastructure, major events, major exhibitions, and the trademark protection is urgent". The Measures specify that an application for trademark registration for which fast-track examination is requested shall meet all of six conditions including "with the consent of all applicants". The Measures also state that, upon acceptance of request for fast-track examination, the CNIPA, shall grant the fast-track examination if the requirements of the Measures are met, and make an examination decision in accordance with the law. Those trademark applications that do not comply with the provisions of these Measures will not be subject to fast-track examination and be examined according to the general procedures prescribed by law. If fast-track examination is granted, the examination shall be completed within 20 working days from the date of consent.

(Source: China National Intellectual Property Administration)