International

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.

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.

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.

Colombia Proposes PCT Rules Amendment

Colombia has submitted a proposal to amend PCT Rules 4.1(a) and 5.1(a) and modify PCT Administrative Instructions to add a new Section 219. The proposal is being considered by the WIPO PCT Working Group. The notes verbales indicate a desire for the proposal to be explicitly included on the agenda for the Nineteenth Session.

WIPO PCT Working Group Adds Treaty Item on Genetic Resources

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has added a supplementary item to the PCT Working Group's agenda concerning a potential treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources, and Associated Traditional Knowledge. This addition reflects a request received on December 29, 2025, and is included in the revised draft agenda for the Nineteenth session.

WIPO PCT Office Feedback Survey Invitation

WIPO has issued a circular inviting PCT Offices to participate in the 'PCT Office Feedback Survey 2024-2025'. The survey aims to assess satisfaction with WIPO's International Bureau services and identify areas for improvement. Responses are requested by March 6, 2026.

WIPO PCT Proposes Full Text PDF Versions for International Applications

WIPO is proposing to make full text PDF versions of international patent applications, including color and greyscale drawings, available to the public. This consultation seeks feedback on changes to the PCT system to accommodate these new formats alongside the existing black and white publication.

US Senate Hearing Explores Section 230 Reforms

A US Senate hearing explored potential reforms to Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which provides liability protections for online platforms. Lawmakers and experts discussed the law's impact on the digital ecosystem and its applicability to emerging technologies like AI, with a general sentiment favoring amendments over full repeal.

White House AI Policy Recommendations

The White House has released its policy recommendations for federal AI regulation, emphasizing children's online safety, intellectual property, AI literacy, and preemption of state laws. The recommendations aim to establish a uniform national framework for AI development and use, fostering public trust and innovation.

ISDA Responds to FCA Consultation on Derivatives Transparency

ISDA has responded to the UK Financial Conduct Authority's (FCA) consultation CP26/8 regarding transparency requirements for financial instruments. The response supports a proposed change to MAR 11 to resolve a discrepancy between OTC derivatives in scope for public transparency and the permissible CFI codes.