China’s New Trade Secret Rules Do Not Replace China NNN Agreements
f you think China’s new trade secret rules mean you can rely less on contracts, you’re making a costly mistake. Laws don’t enforce themselves. Contracts still do the heavy lifting.
China NNN Agreements: The Hard Truth
China NNN Agreements work when they deterChinese companies from misusing your IP. Here is when they help, when they do not, and how to draft one that will actually work.
Manufacturing in China? Register Your Trademark Before Someone Else Does
If you are manufacturing in China, you almost certainly need a China Trademark.
Templates Are Not Contracts: They’re Landmines
China NNN Agreements fail when they only block disclosure, ignore WeChat/CAD files, name the wrong company, or require enforcement you cannot afford. This blog post explains when you need an NDA vs an NNN agreement, common China traps (language, company chop, Hong Kong clauses), and what to send for a fast review.
A Global IP Protection Strategy FAQ
Global IP Protection Strategy FAQ My blog post yesterday, Global IP Protection: Why You Need a Strategy, Not Just an Application generated a lot of questions. In an attempt to answer those we received (and those we anticipate receiving), I give you the below FAQs. If you are manufacturing abroad, expanding internationally, or selling through
Global IP Protection: Why You Need a Strategy, Not Just an Application
Global IP Protection Strategy When brands think about protecting their intellectual property abroad, they often start with the most visible tasks: filing a trademark application, registering a patent, or sending a takedown notice to deal with a specific infringement. Those steps matter. On their own, though, they are tactical steps. They can be necessary, but
Ten IP Monetization Mistakes That Quietly Destroy Global Trademark Portfolio Value
Ten IP Monetization Mistakes That Quietly Destroy Global Trademark Portfolio Value IP deals rarely fail because someone forgot to file a trademark. They fail because of small operational gaps that compound over time. The ten mistakes below directly erode valuation, licensing leverage, and your ability to survive diligence. Why IP Monetization Fails In Practice Deals
Beyond China and Why You Need a Central Trademark/IP Hub
Beyond China and Why You Need a Central Trademark/IP Hub What we’re seeing as companies diversify beyond China In recent years, a large chunk of our work has been helping long-term and new China clients shift manufacturing and supply chains to other parts of Asia, as well as to Latin America and Europe. As they
China Technology Licensing: A Comprehensive Guide
Technology licensing lets you sell into China without a physical presence. Here is a 2025 playbook for diligence, export controls, IP protection, payment verification, and negotiating tactics that actually work.
Why Your China Software IP Strategy Is Probably Wrong (And How to Fix It)
Why Your China Software IP Strategy Is Probably Wrong (And How to Fix It) It started as a routine partnership. A fast-growing American software company needed a trusted partner in Shenzhen to manufacture its new IoT device. Eighteen months into the relationship, an email arrived with a link to a demo at a major tech