Vietnam Intellectual Property Office (IPVN) and Japan Patent Office (JPO) extend Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) pilot program

The Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam (IPVN) and the Japan Patent Office (JPO) announced the extension of the Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) pilot program to the fourth phase, which will be extended for another three years, from April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2028.

The Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam (IPVN) accepts a maximum of 200 PPH requests per year. Each year is divided into two phases:

• The first phase will run from April 1 to September 30, accepting up to 100 PPH requests.
• The second phase is from October 1 to March 31 of the following year, accepting the remaining PPH requests until the upper limit of 200 requests is reached.
• Requirements for filing a PPH request remain the same

The Japan Patent Office (JPO) does not set a cap on the number of PPH requests. Although interest in the program has declined, it remains a valuable mechanism to accelerate patent examination in Vietnam.

As a technology-driven global IP technology service company, YZM is well aware that the PPH program can greatly shorten the patent approval cycle, which is essential for companies that want to accelerate their IP strategy in the Vietnamese and Japanese markets. We have extensive experience in helping clients quickly gain competitive advantages in a complex international patent environment. Whether you are considering applying for a fast-track review or need to learn more about the PPH program, please contact YZM. Our team of experts will provide you with one-on-one professional guidance to help you maximize the opportunity of this accelerated review.