Chinese official does not agree that Apple owns the iPad trademark

Earlier today we reported that according to Proview, a settlement was likely to be reached with Apple regarding the dispute over the ownership of the iPad trademark. Perhaps a settlement would be the best move for Apple as according to a Chinese official, it would appear as though they do not believe that the iPad trademark belongs to Apple and that the courts could ultimately rule in Proview’s favor if a settlement could not be reached. This was revealed by Fu Shuangjian, the vice minister of the State Administration for Industry and Commerce. He claims that based on the trademark laws on China, the iPad moniker does indeed belong to Proview. The implications could be huge should Apple lose the lawsuit. It might result in an injunction, fines and huge damages that they would be required to pay Proview. The transcription of Fu’s statement made earlier today can be found online here.