WIPO studies the harmonization of formalities for patent applications
Geneva, December 22, 1997
Press Updates UPD/1997/2
In Geneva, from December 15 to 19, 1997, the Fifth Session of the Committee of Experts on the Patent Law Treaty met to discuss the provisions of a draft Treaty to promote the harmonization of patent laws and of national or regional patent laws.
The meeting was attended by experts from 68 States, five intergovernmental organizations and 21 nongovernmental organizations.
The draft Treaty pertains to formalities which may be required for the filing of patent applications and recordings by the Patent Offices and related matters, such as requirements for obtaining a filing date, representation, and conditions for extension of time limits and restoration of rights. A particular feature is the provision for closer alignment with the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), which is administered by WIPO, taking into account the latest amendments to the PCT Regulations.
During the course of the meeting, there was overwhelming support for the proposed harmonization and simplification of patent procedures and formalities. In addition, substantial progress was made on the detailed contents of the proposed Treaty.
Future action on harmonization of formalities for patent applications will be decided by the member States of WIPO when they meet next March to approve WIPO's work program for 1998 and 1999.