The Trilateral patent offices focus on SMEs and IP Ecosystem: a continued show of support for that part of the global economy which generates the highest amount of employment and economic growth.
The Trilateral Offices – the Japan Patent Office (JPO), the European Patent Office (EPO) and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) – held their 40th Conference hosted by the USPTO. At the meeting, which took place in a physical format for the first time in three years, the heads addressed topics of mutual interest, with an emphasis on the aspect of SMEs and IP ecosystem. Summary
The theme of this 40th annual meeting was enhancing access to the innovation ecosystem for SMEs to drive economic growth. The Offices shared the results of recent IP-intensive industries reports from each jurisdiction, all demonstrating the key economic contribution that IP-intensive industries make to those countries’ economies and jobs, and discussed ways these reports could be more impactful for policymakers, the innovative community and decision-makers around the world. Furthermore, the Offices reaffirmed their commitment to expand and enhance access to tools, information and other resources useful to the innovation community.
Given that SMEs account for a significant proportion of global business and patent filings, the Offices shared information and best practices for engaging and supporting the SME community in acquiring and protecting their inventions. Discussions centered on identifying and providing information and tools best suited to the needs of SMEs, with a particular focus on more direct outreach to SMEs.
The discussion of SMEs led to a deeper consideration of how the Offices can work together to make the IP system more accessible to all innovating segments of society. This covered support for all innovators, including women and youth in particular, highlighting initiatives such as mentorship and education programs, and creating networking opportunities.
Consistent with input received from Trilateral Industry, the Offices also agreed to explore possible IT improvements designed to simplify and streamline processes across the Offices to improve efficiency and reduce costs for all innovators. Among the topics discussed were AI-based tools, elimination of physical signature requirements, digital end-to-end processing of color drawings and the use of Blockchain technologies to facilitate the secure information exchange among the offices.
Kimura & Partners writes regularly on notable updates to Japanese IP law and related developments. Our focus is on Patent and Trademark law of relevance to the global SME market seeking strong IP protection in applications and infringement defense. We have a long history of supporting SMEs in Japan, and multi-jurisdictionally, with our unique approach to client relationships and “fighting on the IP Battlefield”.
The Trilateral patent offices focus on SMEs and IP Ecosystem – powerful global support for the value of the SME community and their IP, globally
All information for this article is sourced from the office of the “Trilateral”.
