IPR Protection in China for the Textile Industry

China’s textile industry is both an opportunity and threat to European businesses. It is a major market for those supplying production technologies and a key supply base for textiles and finished goods. In recent years, China has also become a lucrative market for textile products due to increasing disposable income of its citizens. However, foreign technologies and brands that are not adequately protected often fall victim to infringement by Chinese competitors. This guide addresses IP issues across subsectors of the textile industry, including textile machinery, yarns and specialty fabrics, finished fabrics and brand apparel & accessories. The areas of IP most relevant to the above sectors will be discussed, as well as smaller IP issues specifically affecting makers of brand apparel and accessories.