New system makes it easier to apply for patents in China

A new programme has been launched that will make it easier for UK businesses to apply for patents in China.

The pilot Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) programme will streamline patent applications between the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) and their counterparts in China.

It means that a business that has obtained a patent in the UK can fast track the process in China and vice-versa. Both offices will be able to make use of the work and data produced by the other.

The pilot PPH programme started on 1 July and will run for an initial period of two years.

The UK IPO has existing agreements with counterparts in several countries including the USA, Germany and Japan. UK exports to China have doubled since 2009 and have now reached more than £1bn per month.

Intellectual Property Minister Lord Younger said: “The launch of the Patent Prosecution Highway with China will enable innovative British businesses to obtain patent protection in China more quickly and cheaply than ever before.

“This can only help to encourage growth and enable UK businesses to work more closely with one of our most important economic partners.”

Please contact Sing Li if you would like more information about the issues raised in this article or any matter relating to patents and intellectual property.