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“无印良品”20余年商标纷争:民营企业知识产权守护启示录
Hua Xia Shi Bao· 2025-07-11 10:31
Core Viewpoint - The implementation of the "Private Economy Promotion Law" on May 20 marks a new phase in the protection of intellectual property rights for private enterprises in China, highlighted by the recent Supreme Court ruling in favor of Cottonfield Company regarding the "Muji" trademark dispute with Japan's Muji [2][6]. Group 1: Trademark Dispute Background - The trademark dispute between Cottonfield Company and Japan's Muji has lasted over 20 years, originating from Cottonfield's establishment in the 1990s and the registration of the "Muji" trademark in 2000 [3][4]. - Cottonfield's trademark was officially registered in 2004, while Japan's Muji had previously registered trademarks in other categories but not in the textile category [3][4]. - The Supreme Court confirmed the coexistence of the "Muji" trademarks in 2012, ruling that Japan's Muji could not prove its trademark's influence in mainland China for the textile category [4][5]. Group 2: Legal Developments - Despite the 2012 ruling, Japan's Muji continued to pursue trademark registration in the textile category, leading to a lengthy legal battle that culminated in another Supreme Court ruling on June 23, 2025, which upheld Cottonfield's trademark rights [5][6]. - Ongoing legal disputes remain between the two companies, particularly regarding the use of the "Muji" name in online and offline retail [5][6]. Group 3: Importance of Intellectual Property - The case exemplifies the significance of intellectual property rights for private enterprises in China, as emphasized by the new law that aims to enhance protection and support for innovation [6][7]. - Cottonfield's experience highlights the need for private companies to clearly define their market positioning and actively communicate their brand value to consumers [6][7]. Group 4: Company Strategy and Future Outlook - Cottonfield is focusing on technological development and high-quality products, achieving significant advancements in product performance, such as a towel that absorbs water in less than one second [7]. - The company has diversified into various sectors, including textiles, traditional Chinese medicine, and e-commerce, boasting over 1,000 proprietary intellectual properties and patents [7]. - Cottonfield anticipates revenue exceeding 5 billion yuan in 2024, driven by innovations such as the popular soybean fiber products developed during the pandemic [7].