How do I protect my product IP with a Chinese factory?

Sign an NDA before sharing designs, file patents and trademarks in your target markets (and in China), and work with a factory that has its own patents and treats your tooling as yours.

Should I sign an NDA with a factory?

Yes — a well-drafted NDA is the first line of defense and a signal that the factory takes IP seriously. MetaPawtic signs an NDA before you share any design files.

Who owns the mold in an OEM project?

In a proper OEM arrangement, you own the mold (your tooling) even though the factory houses it. Confirm ownership in writing before paying for tooling.

How to Protect Your IP with a Chinese Factory

Key takeaways

Sign an NDA before sharing any design files.
File patents and trademarks in your target markets — and consider China.
Confirm in writing that you own the mold, even though the factory houses it.
Work with a factory that holds its own patents — it's a sign they understand IP.

The 4 Layers of IP Protection

1. NDA	Sign before sharing designs — the first, cheapest line of defense.
2. Patents	Protect the mechanism and utility in your target markets (and China).
3. Trademarks	Register your brand in the markets you sell.
4. Tooling ownership	Confirm in writing you own the mold, so a factory can't reuse it for a competitor.

Why It Matters Who You Work With

A factory that files its own patents and signs an NDA before you share designs is one that takes IP seriously. MetaPawtic holds dozens of design and utility patents, and we sign an NDA before you send us any files. Learn more on our OEM vs ODM guide.

Protect Your Design From Day One

We'll sign an NDA before you share your design. Get OEM/ODM terms within 24 hours.

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