Tag: intellectual property committee

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Recap of Webinar: Navigating the 2025 Draft Amendment to the Trademark Law of China

On March 12, 2026, the US-China Intellectual Property Exchange and Development Foundation (UCIPF) together with the AABANY Intellectual Property Committee hosted an informative webinar entitled “Navigating the 2025 Draft Amendment to the Trademark Law of China.”

The session featured insights from trademark attorneys Tracy Shen (who stepped in last minute for original speaker Spring Chang) and Lilian Qiu, Partners from Chang Tsi and Partners. Twelve attendees were given a summary on the upcoming legislative developments affecting China’s trademark office laws. As the market in China continues to grow and cater to more global business, it is important for legal professionals protecting their clients’ trademarks in this area to stay well-informed and on top of changes to the trademark filing process and rules. This webinar aimed to dissect the latest draft amendment to the trademark law, likely to be enacted this year, offering actionable insights and strategies that participants can implement in their trademark portfolio management and enforcement strategies.

Key Discussions and Highlights
Both Tracy and Lilian shared their expertise in the field, walking attendees through the significant proposed changes outlined in the draft amendment. They provided a clear analysis of the policy background, explaining how these legislative shifts signal a more robust trademark regime in China and how the trademark office is attempting to fix existing difficulties by trademark holders and filers.

The speakers outlined the changes introduced in the new draft amendment, focusing on several focal points:

  • Changes Addressing Bad Faith Filings: One of the pivotal aspects of the discussion was centered on new provisions designed to inhibit bad faith trademark filers and malicious filings, such as by levying harsher penalties. Tracy and Lilian emphasized how these changes are set to enhance protections for genuine trademark owners, addressing long-standing dilemmas faced by businesses navigating China’s trademark system.
  • Efficiency Improvements: The speakers highlighted improvements brought forth by the draft amendment, showcasing how the streamlined processes would make the application and enforcement of trademarks more efficient. Such efficiencies, designed to reduce the opposition period and expanding protection for well-known trademarks, are expected to make a significant difference for foreign entities operating in China, providing clearer pathways to securing and maintaining trademark rights.
  • Unpacking Prior Amendments: The discussion also delved into analyzing which proposed changes from the prior draft amendment were not included in the latest version. Tracy and Lilian provided industry context that illuminated the rationale behind these omissions, guiding participants in understanding the current legislative climate.
  • Strategies for Portfolio Management and Risk Mitigation: Perhaps most importantly, the webinar concluded with actionable strategic advice for firms gearing up to adapt to these upcoming changes. Tracy and Lilian shared essential insights on proactive measures that businesses can take to protect their intellectual property rights in light of the new framework.

This was a specialized session for trademark attorneys who conduct trademark work in China and provided valuable insights to help navigate the upcoming changes.

We extend our gratitude to Tracy Shen and Lilian Qiu for their expert contributions to this webinar and encourage attendees to stay connected with UCIPF for future discussions on intellectual property developments.

For those interested in gaining more details from this session or joining future webinars and topics, and networking events, please join AABANY’s Intellectual Property Committee and reach out to Committee Chairs Greg Pan, Jeffrey Mok, and Ada Wang for with questions.

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A Flavorful Finale: AABANY Intellectual Property Committee Wraps Up the Fiscal Year at CHILI

On Monday, March 16, 2026, the AABANY Intellectual Property (IP) Committee gathered for its final dinner of the 2025-2026 fiscal year at CHILI, a Michelin-recognized Sichuan restaurant in Midtown Manhattan.

The evening served as a festive conclusion to a productive year, bringing together a diverse mix of legal professionals—from seasoned IP attorneys, in-house and government attorneys, to law students—to network and reflect on the year’s achievements before the new fiscal year begins on April 1. The gathering offered the attendees, all AABANY members at different stage of their careers, an opportunity to share insights and forge connections that extend well beyond the courtroom or office. Conversations flowed easily between the fourteen attendees, from those who have spent decades navigating the complexities of intellectual property law to those just beginning to find their footing in the profession, creating a sense of mentorship and mutual inspiration. As the evening drew to a close, attendees departed with renewed energy and a shared sense of purpose, ready to carry the momentum of the past year into the promising opportunities that the new fiscal year is sure to bring.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for this special evening. We look forward to many more meals, meaningful conversations, and moments of connection in the new fiscal year.

If you’re interested in future dinners, keep an eye on the AABANY calendar for upcoming events. To learn more about the IP Committee, visit their subpage on the AABANY website.

– Written by Ada Wang, AABANY Intellectual Property Committee Co-Chair

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AABANY Committees and NYU APALSA Host Fireside Chat with Hasan Shafiqullah on Current Immigration Enforcement Trends and Ethics

On March 3, the AABANY Issues Committee, Immigration Committee, Government Service and Public Interest Committee, Pro Bono and Community Service Committee, Intellectual Property Committee, Student Outreach Committee, and Young Lawyers Committee, in partnership with NYU Law’s Asian Pacific American Law Students Association (APALSA), hosted a fireside chat with Hasan Shafiqullah of the Legal Aid Society’s Immigration Law Unit at NYU School of Law. The event brought together attorneys, law students, and members of the legal community to discuss current immigration enforcement trends, detention practices, and the ethical challenges facing immigration practitioners.

The conversation highlighted the rapid pace of immigration policy changes during the Trump administration and their continuing impact on immigration practice. Shafiqullah noted that more than 1,000 immigration policy changes were implemented through executive action during Trump’s first term, and that similar patterns appear to be emerging again, alongside proposals such as the Laken Riley Act, which would significantly expand mandatory detention.

Despite these developments, Shafiqullah emphasized that federal courts remain an important avenue for relief. Through habeas corpus petitions, federal District Courts can review unlawful detention and order new bond hearings or release when appropriate. He noted that “District Court judges are understanding that due process won’t permit arbitrary action.”

The program concluded with a discussion about the emotional toll of immigration practice. Because many asylum clients have experienced severe trauma, attorneys often face vicarious trauma as well. The Legal Aid Society supports its staff by providing trainings on handling burnout, secondary trauma, and sustainable public interest practice.

AABANY thanks Hasan Shafiqullah and the Legal Aid Society for sharing their insights, and thanks APALSA and the co-sponsoring committees for organizing this timely and informative program.

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AABANY’s Young Lawyers and Intellectual Property Committees Host Escape Room Social

On Saturday, November 1, 2025, AABANY’s Young Lawyers Committee and Intellectual Property Committee co-hosted an Escape the Room Social at Escape the Room NYC.

Attendees put their analytical and problem-solving skills to the test in a race against time. Divided into two themed rooms—The Agency and Jurassic Escape—participants faced unique missions that challenged their teamwork and creativity.

In The Agency, teams collaborated to decipher codes, analyze maps, and assist James Bond in completing his mission before his cover was blown. Meanwhile, in Jurassic Escape, participants raced against the clock to outsmart prehistoric predators, shut down an evil corporation, and make their daring escape to safety.

We thank all attendees for taking time out of their Halloweekend to join us for this fun and challenging adventure. Special thanks to Young Lawyers Committee Co-Vice Chair Cecilia Yang for planning and executing this successful event!

To learn more about AABANY’s Young Lawyers Committee, click here. To learn more about AABANY’s Intellectual Property Committee, click here. To find out about upcoming events like this, please visit the calendar on AABANY’s website.

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AABANY Intellectual Property Committee Hosts Dinner at Tosokchon NYC

On June 23, 2025, the Intellectual Property Committee of the Asian American Bar Association of New York (AABANY) hosted its June dinner at Tosokchon, a beloved Korean restaurant in Manhattan’s Koreatown. Attendees bonded over their shared interest in intellectual property law while enjoying lively conversations and savoring a variety of delicious Korean dishes, including japchae, kalbi, and kimchi pancake.

The casual setting offered a unique opportunity for attendees to engage in discussions on topics ranging from recent IP developments to sharing insights from their experiences across the four core IP areas: patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. The evening also featured thoughtful conversations about how attendees’ diverse experiences guided them to their current positions. Some attendees had backgrounds rooted in science and engineering, while others entered the intellectual property field through a more traditional legal path. Several attorneys offered valuable advice on law school applications to our college student attendees, fostering a supportive environment for the next generation of legal professionals.

The IP Committee’s monthly dinners aim to build an inclusive community where individuals can explore ideas and expand their networks. Thank you to all who attended and helped make the evening a success!

To learn more about the IP Committee and how you can participate, visit the IP Committee’s page on the AABANY website.

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AABANY IP Committee Enjoys Malaysian Cuisine at May Dinner

On Monday, May 12, 2025, the AABANY Intellectual Property Committee hosted its monthly dinner, this time at Rasa, a Malaysian restaurant located in Greenwich Village. Members and guests gathered to enjoy an evening of flavorful food and engaging conversation.

The dinner provided a relaxed and friendly setting for attendees to connect with others who share an interest in intellectual property law. Participants ranged from seasoned IP practitioners to law students and newcomers to the legal field. The event was open to both AABANY members and non-members, and several first-time attendees joined the group—bringing new energy and fresh perspectives to the table.

Over plates of satay, roti, and nasi lemak, conversations covered recent developments in IP law, career paths in the field, and opportunities for collaboration within the AABANY community. The dinner also offered a great chance for committee members to catch up and welcome new faces into the fold.

Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the evening a success! The IP Committee looks forward to hosting more dinners and events in the coming months. New members are always welcome—bring a friend and join us next time!

To learn more about the IP Committee and how you can participate, visit the IP Committee’s page on the AABANY website.

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Intellectual Property Committee Unwinds with Board Game Night

On March 7, the IP Committee of AABANY hosted a fun and relaxing Board Game Night, inviting members and friends from a variety of backgrounds to unwind, connect, and engage in some friendly competition.

Whether you were a seasoned board game enthusiast or a casual player, there was something for everyone. The night featured a variety of games, including classics such as Taboo and Monopoly, as well as some fresh games that were new to attendees.  The casual, fun atmosphere made it easy for everyone to jump right in, regardless of their level of experience with board games.  Attendees also enjoyed a spread of dumplings, noodles, and other food and drinks. 

A big thank you to everyone who attended for some good fun and conversation, and for making this event such a success!

If you missed out this time, don’t worry—keep an eye on our upcoming events as we continue our goal of building a strong and supportive community.  We hope to see you next time!

Thanks to IP Committee Co-Chair Jeff Mok for organizing the event, and his firm Fish & Richardson for hosting. To learn more about the IP Committee and how you can get involved, go here.

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A Farewell to 2024: AABANY IP Committee’s End-of-Year Dinner

On December 17, 2024, the AABANY Intellectual Property (IP) Committee held its final dinner of the year at Dhaba Indian Cuisine, a cozy spot perfect for a cold winter evening. Members, both new and returning, gathered to enjoy flavorful and spicy dishes, while sharing career updates and holiday plans. The Committee was also happy to welcome a guest from out of town.

The dinner provided an excellent opportunity for members to connect, reflect on the past year, and look forward to the opportunities that 2025 holds.

The IP Committee is excited to continue its dinner series in the new year, creating additional chances for members to network, learn from each other, and engage with professionals in the IP community.

A big thank you to everyone who attended! The IP Committee always welcomes new members to join our growing and dynamic community.

To learn more about the IP Committee and how you can get involved, visit the IP Committee’s page on the AABANY website.

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AABANY Intellectual Property Committee Hosts VR Gaming Experience

On Monday, November 4, AABANY’s Intellectual Property Committee hosted a Virtual Reality Gaming event at Tidal Force VR, a small tech startup located in the Flatiron District of Manhattan. 

While some attendees had prior experience with VR, others did not. Participants played in two games: the first was a space-themed game, where they had to defend against a siege of alien invaders. The second game was a three-versus-three team event, in which the attendees split up and faced off against one another.

Overall, the event was a lively and enjoyable experience for everyone, and attendees were able to learn about and experience VR firsthand while also connecting with one another. The IP Committee is always looking for new and exciting ways for members to develop relationships. Look out for more fun IP Committee events in the new year! 

Thanks to the IP Committee for hosting this event, as well as everyone who was in attendance. To learn more about the IP Committee, please click here.

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Labor & Employment Law Committee Co-Sponsors AAPI Heritage Month Program on Asian Entrepreneurs Sharing Their Roots to Success

On May 14, 2024, AABANY’s Labor and Employment Law, Intellectual Property, and In-House Counsel Committees co-hosted a panel discussion entitled “Roots to Success: Navigating Commercial and Legal Terrain in Asian Small Business Ventures.”  The event was an opportunity for AABANY members to gather in celebration of May’s AANHPI/APIDA Heritage Month.

The event featured panelists Rachna Shah, Founder and General Counsel of External General Counsel LLC, Ayan Sanyal, Co-Founder of Kolkata Chai, and Lingfei (Teddy) Wu, Founder and CEO of Anytime AI. The event was moderated by Anushree Bagrodia, Vice President of Legal Americas of Mastercard and Co-Chair of AABANY’s In-House Counsel Committee.

The panelists shared their unique personal journeys that led them to start their businesses. They discussed the challenges that they faced when starting and growing their businesses and how they overcame these challenges, including how they navigate the legal issues that their businesses encounter. To tie the event back to AANHPI/APIDA Heritage Month, the panelists also shared the importance of embracing and celebrating their Asian heritage and supporting other Asian entrepreneurs and Asian owned businesses. We thank our distinguished panelists and moderator for sharing their time, perspectives, and insights. We also thank Littler Mendelson. P.C. for hosting the event at their New York City office.

To learn more about the Labor & Employment Law Committee please click here. To learn more about the Intellectual Property Committee please click here. To learn more about the In-House Counsel Committee please click here.

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