Tag Archives: IP protection

Last updated: February 14, 2026

Manufacturing Contract: Fear And Its Impact On Payment Terms

In this post, I’ll discuss the major risks each party is afraid of and their impact on payment terms in the context of the customer/supplier relationship, as well as where a manufacturing contract fits into the picture.

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Correctly Using A Non Disclosure Non Use Non Circumvention Agreement [Podcast]

The main topic is the non-disclosure non-use non-circumvention agreement. These agreements are important legal tools for importers to use if they’re serious about protecting their business interests and product IP. But there are right and wrong ways to use them, … Continue reading

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When Is Product IP Most At Risk From Copycats? [Podcast]

Renaud explores some of the key situations where your product IP can be at risk by copycats, especially if you have a new, innovative, and/or popular product. In this episode, he explains when IP can be at risk, who might try … Continue reading

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Can Getting To Market First Stop Copycats? [Podcast]

A recent China Law Blog article outlined why getting to market first with your new product isn’t great protection against copycats these days, especially if corners have been cut in the name of speed. Some entrepreneurs believe that skipping IP … Continue reading

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IP Infringement In China. What To Do If You’re A Victim?

Here’s an interesting, yet unfortunate scenario about IP infringement in China. You have designed a new product and have found a Chinese manufacturing partner (supplier) to help develop and manufacture it under a manufacturing agreement. Nothing uncommon here. But how … Continue reading

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Will A China NNN Agreement Protect Us If We Start Assembling Products There?

Security of your IP is a great concern these days, especially if you’re manufacturing an innovative product that is selling well. For this reason, some businesses choose to ship their China-made components to the West and do assembly there. But … Continue reading

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Exploring Product Development Agreements For Importers [Podcast]

In This Episode… If you are developing a new product that is going to be manufactured in China or other Asian countries then there’s a good chance that you have product IP that needs to be protected unless the product … Continue reading

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Chinese Copycats: A Real Problem For Entrepreneurs?

IP protection is always a concern for businesses and entrepreneurs, especially when manufacturing an innovative new product. Chinese copycats, or fast followers, are a threat to your new product and business as these vendors may mobilize quickly to copy and … Continue reading

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How To Qualify A Contract Manufacturer Or Component Supplier [Podcast]

We’re often asked how to qualify a contract manufacturer or component supplier. In this episode, Renaud explores the best practices importers could follow when sourcing new manufacturers or suppliers in China, or beyond. This includes sourcing options (who to use), … Continue reading

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How To Protect Product IP When Working With Contractors & Factories In Different Locations? [6 tips]

Entrepreneurs, hardware startups, and various SMEs commonly outsource parts of their new product manufacturing project to various individuals and companies around the world, such as product designers and factories. But one worry they have is how to protect product IP … Continue reading

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