This session will explore a host of intellectual property (IP) issues for wholesale and retail consumer product businesses that manufacture products in China or the U.S. We will discuss how to prevent your products from being copied, how to avoid infringing a patent, IP indemnification clauses in sales contracts, as well as answering typical questions such as:
"Companies are copying my product here and in China, and selling it to my competitors!" - we will be reviewing how to protect your product, including the name and packaging, both in the U.S. and abroad. We will discuss how to correspond with factories in China, along with how and when to disclose your product information. We will also discuss the various types of patent applications and protections available.
"I created my product independently, why do I have to stop selling it?" - we will explain how and when to ensure your product is clear of IP infringement before investing money into the product and preventing a waste of resources.
"What does patent pending mean? Why can't I sell this product, everyone else is selling it." - we will discuss the difference between a granted patent and patent pending, what you are allowed and not allowed to do under the law, how to design around patents so you can sell products while they are "hot", and the risks associated.
"I purchased these goods from a U.S. company and have IP indemnification so I have nothing to worry about, right?" - are you really covered? We will discuss how this provision may be state specific and what proactive steps you may need to take to ensure IP indemnification clauses work.
Aasheesh will also be answering any questions from the audience regarding intellectual property issues they may want to inquire about.
Refreshments -- alcoholic and non-alcoholic -- will be served.