BPTO changes procedure to speed up decisions on patent applications

In brief

BPTO informed, on December 12, 2023, that the distribution of patent applications for technical examination, and the consequent carrying out of the examination, will now be ordered by the date of the examination request, and no longer by the date of filing.

This strategic change aims to optimize the national processing of patent applications, aligning Brazil with international practices.

According to the BPTO, this measure will determine a new dynamic for voluntary changes to the patent application, contributing to a reduction in the time until a decision for patent applications is rendered.

This new Guideline is expected to be in force by January 1, 2024.