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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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.