A debate over ownership of traditional Chinese symbols has cropped up after a court ordered a local tea chain to pay French luxury brand Louis Vuitton (LV) US$1.5 million over trademark infringement claims.Chinese state media and online commentators are questioning if the four-petal flower design in the fashion house’s 130-year-old signature monogram is derived from patterns dating back to ancient China. Some are accusing the company of “monopolising” traditional Chinese patterns.

Shenzhen-based tea company says it will appeal decision

Molly Tea, a Chinese bubble tea chain, faces backlash after being ordered to pay $1.5m in damages to Louis Vuitton for alleged logo trademark infringement.