Casio Wins Unfair Competition Lawsuit in China
December 12, 2024
TOKYO, December 12, 2024 — Casio Computer Co., Ltd. announced today that it has won its appeal against Guangzhou Teyuan Watch Industry Co., Ltd.. and Shenzhen Tasgo Watch Co., Ltd. (hereinafter, the “Defendants”) in a lawsuit over unfair competition.
The High People’s Court of Guangdong Province ruled that Casio's shock-resistant G-SHOCK watch line, the GA-110, is a “product whose design elements are recognized and carry certain influence in the market,” and that the Defendants' use, without permission, of a design similar to that of the GA-110 line was an act of unfair competition that could confuse consumers. As a result, the court ordered the Defendants to pay 3 million yuan (approximately 65 million yen)1 in damages.
1. Exchange rate: 1 CNY = 21 JPY
This represents the first case in which relief under China’s Anti-Unfair Competition Law was granted to Casio for a product design with expired design rights.
Launched in China in 2010, the G-SHOCK GA-110 is a popular watch line that achieved top sales in China over the five years from 2016 to 2020. By submitting its sales records and advertising as evidence, Casio proved that the characteristic design of the GA-110 is distinctive and distinguishable from other watches on the market, and that it is widely recognized by Chinese consumers. Taking into account the sales record, along with the Defendants’ infringing actions and malicious intent, the company was awarded a significant sum of 3 million yuan.
G-SHOCK GA-110
Casio’s iconic G-SHOCK watches first debuted in 1983, born from a passion of a developer to create a tough watch that would not break even if dropped. With its unparalleled shock resistance and iconic design, G-SHOCK has since captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Today, it has grown into a global brand, shipping over 150 million units across more than 140 countries and regions.
In upholding its Purpose, “Through the power to put wonder at hand, bring new levels of joy to lives one by one,” Casio has continually contributed to society by delivering innovative products and services. Moving forward, Casio remains committed to protecting its customers from the risk of purchasing counterfeit or imitation products. The company will rigorously enforce its intellectual property rights, including patents, designs, and trademarks, to preserve and enhance the value of its brands.