European Patent Office president predicts future of the unitary patent package after Brexit

In a recent blog, Benoît Battistelli, president of the European Patent Office, shared his predictions for the future of the unitary patent package following the UK’s decision to leave the European Union.

 

Battistelli holds the opinion that ways need to be found for the unitary patent package to enter into operation as soon as possible so that businesses are not being denied the commercial advantages and cost savings of the package. He highlights that the package is ready to begin operating as soon as the ratifications of the Unified Patent Court Agreement are obtained.

 

In terms of the UK’s involvement in the unitary patent package, Battistelli suggests that a best case scenario would be that the UK proceeds with the ratification of the Unified Patent Court Agreement as soon as possible. This would put the UK in a good position to obtain continuous participation in the package during its EU exit negotiations.

 

However, other scenarios prioritise the timely delivery of the unitary patent package, even if this means proceeding without the UK. Battistelli expresses his regret, should this happen, as it would be a loss to leave out ‘a country that can help to shape the future of the system in a business and user-friendly approach.’

 

Click here for the European Patent Office article.

 

This briefing is for general information purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for legal advice relating to your particular circumstances. We can discuss specific issues and facts on an individual basis and answer any questions you receive from others about Brexit. Please note that the law may have changed since the date this was first published in September 2016.