Chinese Intellectual Property Authorities Enhance Efficiency of Patent Reviews

Chinese intellectual property authorities are making significant strides in improving the efficiency of patent reviews to boost innovation-driven development and high-level opening-up. The revised Rules for the Implementation of the Patent Law, approved by the State Council, will take effect on Saturday, aiming to optimize review standards in new fields like big data, artificial intelligence, and gene technology.

Wei Baozhi from the National Intellectual Property Administration highlighted efforts to speed up patent examinations, with the average review time for invention patents reduced to 16 months last year. The revised rules emphasize streamlining procedures for innovators to apply for patents, offering stronger protection, and high-quality services.

Shen Changyu, head of the administration, emphasized the importance of implementing the directives in the rules to enhance China’s patent creativity, utilization, protection, and management. The revision aligns with China’s commitment to building a rule-of-law environment for innovation and promoting high-level technological self-reliance.

The revised rules also establish an early settlement system for drug-related patent disputes to protect the rights of patent owners and advance the pharmaceutical industry’s development. Zhang Zhicheng noted the successful resolution of cases through an adjudication board, emphasizing the system’s role in reducing patent infringement risks and safeguarding public health.

Overall, the focus on accelerating patent reviews and enhancing patent protection underscores China’s commitment to promoting industrial innovation and increasing productivity. With provinces like Sichuan, Guangdong, Jiangsu, and Hubei taking the lead in reviewing patents stored at local institutions, the administration is poised to provide more efficient services for patent registration and transfer, driving forward China’s innovation agenda.