On August 30, 2013, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (“Standing Committee”) issued a decision in which the State Council is authorized to temporarily adjust certain rules on administrative approval in relevant laws within China (Shanghai) Free Trade Trial Zone (hereinafter the “Decision”), which will enter into effect on October 1, 2013.

In order to accelerate the transformation of governmental functions, innovating the mode of opening the economy to the world, exploring the experience of deepening of reform and opening up, the State Council is authorized to execute such adjustment in Shanghai Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, Shanghai Waigaoqiao Bonded Logistics Park, Yangshan Bonded Port and Shanghai Pudong Airport Free Trade Zone established on the basis of China (Shanghai) Free Trade Trial Zone. The adjustment of administrative examination and approval shall be implemented within three years on a trial basis as of its effective date. If the Trial practice is proved feasible, relevant laws and regulations will be modified and improved. Otherwise, relevant laws and regulations will be recovered.

On August 30, 2013, the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress issued the Third Amendment to PRC Trademark Law (the "Amendment"). The new Trademark Law based on this Amendment will enter into force on May 1, 2014.

In general, the Amendment improves the legal framework regarding critical issues such as trademark application, review and opposition, trademark use, assignment and extension, trademark infringement and punishment, etc. The main changes in detail are clarified as follows: