USPTO Asked For Clarity On Proposed Foreign Applicant Rule

By Editorial Team

A trade group representing intellectual property owners is seeking clarity on the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s proposed requirement for all foreign patent owners to be represented by a domestic-registered patent practitioner. The group has also suggested steps to “promote fairness” in this process.

The Intellectual Property Owners Association (IPO) has submitted comments to the USPTO, expressing concerns about the proposed rule and its potential impact on foreign applicants. The rule would mandate that all foreign patent applicants must have representation by a U.S.-registered patent practitioner.

The IPO is urging the USPTO to provide more clarity on the rationale behind this requirement and how it aligns with existing laws and regulations. The group is also calling for measures to ensure fairness and equal treatment for all patent applicants, regardless of their location.

The IPO’s comments come as part of the public consultation process initiated by the USPTO to gather feedback on the proposed rule. The agency is expected to review all comments received before making a final decision on the matter.

For more information on the IPO’s comments and the USPTO’s proposed foreign applicant rule, interested parties can access the attached documents or visit the USPTO’s official website for updates.