From a patent perspective, the new Act aims to enhance
efficiency and align with international standards.
Key changes include the option to amend patent applications
before allowance or refusal, provided they do not extend beyond the
initial scope. Applications can now be converted into provisional
applications before examination, allowing for earlier filing dates.
The new Act also excludes software-related inventions from
patentability and revises provisions related to the patentability
of pharmaceutical products. Patent applications must be published
in the Gazette within nine months of formality compliance, and
earlier processing of regional (ARIPO) or international (PCT)
applications is allowed upon payment of a fee. Annual maintenance
fees are now required in advance from the application filing
date.
