Manufacturer Ningbo Huowenxi Trading Co Ltd – located in East China's Zhejiang province – was involved in an administrative case for exporting motor vehicle parts that infringed on the exclusive rights of trademarks, such as "TOYOTA" oil filters.

In early 2022, the company declared a batch of goods – including brake pumps and camshafts – to customs as "unbranded" through general trade.

However, during an inspection by Shanghai Customs officers, a large number of spark plugs, cylinder pads, piston rings and other items with logos of 15 well-known domestic and foreign automobile brands such as TOYOTA, CHERY and FORD were found in the container, worth over 610,000 yuan ($85,077).

Twelve domestic and foreign trademark owners, including Toyota, Chery and Ford, confirmed that these auto parts were infringing products.

Shanghai Customs promptly investigated and seized the allegedly infringing goods. In October 2022, the customs authorities made an administrative penalty decision, confiscating over 105,000 items of infringing auto parts and imposing a fine.

This case is said to highlight the Chinese government's commitment to cracking down on IP infringements and protecting the legitimate rights and interests of trademark owners.