Implementation of Patent Prosecution Highway Pilot Program Between TIPO and USPTO

The Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) pilot plan between the Taiwan Intellectual Property Office (TIPO) and the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) commenced from September 1, 2011 for a trial period of 1 year. Upon the expiry of the 1-year term, both the TIPO and the USPTO will evaluate and decide whether the program will be continued. Either office may decide to terminate the PPH pilot program prior to the end of the 1-year term if the volume of participation exceeds a manageable level or for other reason(s).

The PPH pilot program enables an applicant, whose patent claims, in part ...