Wang Xing Ji is a time-honored fan-making brand since 1875. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

The Zhejiang Provincial Administration for Market Regulation recently released the Key Trademark Protection Catalogue, listing 945 registered trademarks recognized for their strong reputation and market influence — including 42 time-honored brands from Hangzhou such as Liangzhu Museum, Zhejiang Daily Press Group, Hangzhou Iron and Steel Group, and Wang Xing Ji.

The catalogue aims to provide stronger legal protection for well-known and easily infringed trademarks, ensuring a safer environment for brand development.

Trademark disputes among long-standing brands have long been a legal challenge. A notable case involved Hangzhou's Wang Xing Ji and Shaoxing Wang Xing Ji Fan Factory, in which the Hangzhou Internet Court ruled in favor of the Hangzhou company, awarding 300,000 yuan ($42,237) in damages.

Sun Yaqing, chairwoman of Hangzhou Wang Xing Ji Fan, said she was gratified to see the brand included in the provincial protection list. She emphasized the need for harsher penalties against trademark infringement, noting that the low cost of imitation often encourages repeat violations.

Zhejiang has been promoting the protection and development of time-honored brands for over two decades. The inclusion of these brands in the provincial catalogue marks a stronger cross-departmental effort to safeguard traditional brands while also encouraging innovation and sustainable growth.

The Hangzhou Grand Canal Steelworks Park, converted from the former Hangzhou Iron and Steel Group's factory, is popular among tourists at night. [Photo/WeChat account: hzfb]