The examinations that start on or after April 1, 2016 regarding food use patent applications and patent term extensions will follow the JPO's updated Examination Guidelines and Handbook ,for patent and utility model examinations.
Furthermore, the JPO will examine applications filed on or after April 1, 2016 under the Guidelines and Handbook-specified procedures that are updated to meet requirements of the Patent Law Treaty (PLT).
You can access the English translations of the JPO's Examination Guidelines and Handbook online. If you have questions about how the changes may affect your application, please feel free to contact Keisen Associates.
Sources
- http://www.jpo.go.jp/shiryou/kijun/kijun2/h2803_kaitei.htm, updated March 23, 2016.
- http://www.jpo.go.jp/shiryou/kijun/kijun2/handbook_shinsa_h2803.htm, updated March 23, 2016.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.