EPO-CNIPA to Launch New PPH Pilot
On August 1, 2026, the European Patent Office (EPO) and the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) will launch a new bilateral Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) pilot programme.
Algeria Adopts the Hague Apostille Convention
Algeria has officially acceded to the Hague Apostille Convention (the 1961 Convention Abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents).
Key Changes to French IP Procedures in 2026
A decree published on July 2, 2026, introduces a range of measures aimed at simplifying and modernizing industrial property procedures in France. Read more to find a summary of key changes.
Bahrain Joins the Locarno Agreement
Bahrain has approved its accession to the Locarno Agreement through Law No. 21 of 2026. The treaty provides a globally recognized classification system for industrial designs...
SAIP Approves Implementing Regulations for Saudi Arabia's Geographical Indications Law
The Saudi Authority for Intellectual Property (SAIP) has approved the executive regulations for Saudi Arabia's new Geographical Indications Protection Law (Decision 2026/39/01), marking the country's transition to a fully operational GI registration regime.
Concours Lépine Recognizes Patented Innovation for Seabed Clean-Up
The Concours Lépine is an invention competition held annually since 1901. Originally established to support small French manufacturers and inventors facing increasing foreign competition, it has evolved into a landmark event for innovation in France. Today, it takes place as part of the Paris Trade Fair (Foire de Paris).
USPTO Continues Crackdown on Fraudulent Trademark Filings
The USPTO continues to strengthen its efforts to protect the integrity of the U.S. trademark register. According to a recent USPTO Trademark Alert, in the past six months the agency has issued 11 administrative orders targeting the removal of approximately 10,500 trademark applications and registrations.
Iraq – Baghdad: Updated Official Trademark Fees
The Iraqi Trademark Office has introduced a revised fee structure following the approval of a legislative decision to update official fees for certain trademark procedures. The changes impact a wide range of services, including trademark filings, registrations, renewals, and related administrative processes. These amendments were officially published in the Official Gazette on 30 March 2026 and applied by the Iraqi TMO as of May 06, 2026.
Qatar Expands Trademark Registration to All Classes, Including Class 33
Following the adoption of the 13th Edition of the Nice Classification in February 2026, Qatar's Ministry of Commerce and Industry has clarified that all 45 trademark classes are now open for registration. This update, issued in March 2026, marks an important step in aligning Qatar's trademark system with international standards.
European Patent: Moldova Joins The European Patent Convention (EPC)
As of 1 June 2026, the Republic of Moldova is set to become the 40th contracting state of the European Patent Organisation. This accession follows a long-standing cooperation with the EPO, particularly through the validation agreement in force since 2015, and marks an important step in strengthening European collaboration in the field of patents.
