New Patent System Launched

The Intellectual Property Department's Patents Registry has started accepting and examining filings under the new patent system launched today.

The new patent system essentially comprises an original grant patent (OGP) system which creates a direct route for seeking standard patent protection in Hong Kong with a maximum term of 20 years, as an alternative to the existing "re-registration" route.

Director of Intellectual Property David Wong said: "The OGP system demonstrates the Government's commitment to bringing the local patent system on par with the mainstream patent practices of the international community. It will also facilitate the development of the innovation and technology sector in Hong Kong."    

The new patent system safeguards the integrity of the existing short-term patent system while maintaining its overall cost-effectiveness.

The use of certain misleading or confusing titles and descriptions relating to the qualification of patent practitioners is prohibited under the new patent system.

In tandem with the launch of the new patent system, a new electronic processing system started operation today to underpin electronic patent searches and filings.

Click here for details.