In recent days, the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) has confirmed that the UK has “ratified” the United Patent Court Agreement (UPCA) – an agreement which enables the European Union (EU) to deliver a single judgment on patent disputes across EU member states.
The surprise decision, which will enable Intellectual Property (IP) holders to defend their rights using a single, standardised patent and legal system all across the EU, comes midway through Brexit negotiations.
Nevertheless, the IPO has said that Britain’s move to ratify the international agreement to set up a UPC for Europe will “bring the international court one step closer to reality.”
The UPCA has been specifically designed to be cheaper and more streamlined than existing arrangements, which require IP holders to register and enforce their patents in individual countries, The Financial Times reports.
However, under the UPCA, patents will still need to be examined and granted by the European Patent Office, it has been confirmed.
Sam Gyimah MP, of the IPO, said: “Ratification of this important agreement demonstrates that internationally, as well as at home, the UK is committed to strong Intellectual Property protections.
“This will help to foster innovation and creativity, bringing our modern and ambitious industrial strategy to life.”