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The Agreement between the Government of Georgia and the European Patent Organisation on Validation of European Patents entered into force. From January 15, 2024, it will be possible to validate European patent applications and patents granted by the European Patent Office (EPO) in Georgia.
It is noteworthy that the European Patent Office (EPO) is the second largest public service institution in Europe. The European Patent Organisation has 39 member states, comprising all, 27 member states of the European Union, and also non-EU member states. In addition, 1 country has the extension status and 4 countries have the validation status. From today, Georgia will be the 5th country with the validation status and the 45th country where patent protection will be possible on the basis of a European patent application.
From January 15, European patent applications and patents validated in Georgia under the Validation Agreement will have the same legal effect and be subject to the same legal conditions as are defined for a national patent application and a national patent.
Mr. Soso Giorgadze, Chairman of Sakpatenti, notes that for Georgia, which a month ago was granted the European Union candidate status, it is one more important step on the way to European integration. The entry into force of the Validation Agreement will contribute to further integration of the national economy into the European market. At the same time, it will also increase the possibility of Georgia’s accession to the European Patent Convention. And future membership of the European Patent Organisation will enhance protection of industrial property in Georgia and facilitate the process of becoming a member state of the European Union.
“The entry into force of the validation agreement with Georgia broadens the attractiveness and accessibility of the European patent system, which in its turn can help to attract foreign investment in Georgia. It will also further reduce processing times and costs for applicants, as well as the administrative burden for the National Intellectual Property Center of Georgia “Sakpatenti”, while guaranteeing the highest levels of legal certainty”, - is said in news released by the European Patent Office (EPO) today, quoting the EPO President Mr. António Campinos.
Validation for Georgia may be requested for any European patent or international (PCT) application filed on or after January 15, 2024.
