WIPO

PCT Working Group Considers Electronic Processing and Fee Equivalents

The PCT Working Group met in Geneva to discuss amendments to PCT Regulations aimed at improving electronic processing and data protection. Key proposals include requiring email and phone numbers for applications, allowing exclusion of personal data from public access, and streamlining fee equivalency calculations. These proposals will be submitted to the PCT Assembly for approval.

PCT Working Group Session Opened and Suspended

The nineteenth session of the PCT Working Group opened on February 4, 2026, but was subsequently suspended. The session will be resumed at a future date. Documents related to the session are available on the WIPO website.

PCT Committee Discusses ISA/IPEA Appointments and Agreements

The PCT Committee for Technical Cooperation met in February 2026 to discuss the appointment of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI) as an ISA/IPEA and the extension of existing ISA/IPEAs. The Committee agreed to recommend these appointments and approved a new format for ISA/IPEA agreements.

PCT Working Group Discusses Electronic Services and Rules

The PCT Working Group met to discuss improvements to electronic services and proposed amendments to PCT Regulations. Key proposals include requiring email addresses for applications, allowing exclusion of personal data, and streamlining fee equivalency calculations. These discussions are part of ongoing efforts to modernize the PCT system.

WIPO PCT User Survey Results

WIPO's PCT User Survey for late 2025 indicates a 90% satisfaction rate among over 1,700 respondents regarding PCT services. The results are consistent with previous surveys and WIPO is analyzing feedback for service improvements.

Albania First to Ratify WIPO's Riyadh Design Law Treaty

Albania has become the first member state to ratify the WIPO Riyadh Design Law Treaty (RDLT), depositing its instrument of ratification on March 13, 2026. This treaty aims to streamline and harmonize administrative procedures for design protection internationally, making it easier and more affordable for designers and businesses to protect their creations.

Global Innovation Index 2025 Released

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has released the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025, ranking Switzerland, Sweden, and the US as top innovators. The report highlights slowing growth in innovation investments and identifies China's entry into the top 10.

WIPO Global Awards 2025 Winners Announced

WIPO has announced the ten winners of the 2025 Global Awards, recognizing SMEs and startups for their intellectual property-driven innovation. The awards celebrate entrepreneurs using IP to scale businesses and contribute to social and economic development across health, environment, agri-food, creative industries, and ICT sectors.

WIPO: International Patent Applications Rose 0.7% in 2025

WIPO reported that international patent applications filed through the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) increased by 0.7% in 2025, reaching 275,900 filings. Growth was driven by digital communication and semiconductor technologies, reflecting increased investment in AI and digital innovation.

WIPO Launches AI Infrastructure Interchange Initiative

WIPO has launched the Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure Interchange (AIII) initiative to foster expert dialogue on intellectual property and AI issues. The initiative aims to address technical and operational challenges, with over 1,700 participants registering for the launch event.