European licences validated in Georgia following deal with European Patent Organisation

Applicants are now able to validate European patents granted by the European Patent Organisation in Georgia, following an agreement between the organisation and the Georgian Government.

The National Intellectual Property Centre of Georgia on Monday said European patent applications and patents would have the same legal effect and be subject to the same legal conditions as defined for national patents as a result of the development.

Soso Giorgadze, the Chairman of the Centre, called the deal “one more important step” in Georgia’s European integration following the granting of the European Union membership candidate status to the country last month.

He said the agreement would contribute to further integration of the national economy into the European market, and, at the same time, increase the possibility of Georgia’s accession to the European Patent Convention. 

Future membership of the EPO will enhance protection of industrial property in Georgia and facilitate the process of becoming a member state of the EU”, he said.

The EPO cited its President António Campinos as saying the entry into force of the Validation Agreement with Georgia broadened the attractiveness and accessibility of the European patent system, which, in turn, could help attract foreign investment in the country. 

It will also further reduce processing times and costs for applicants, as well as the administrative burden for the National Intellectual Property Centre, while guaranteeing the highest levels of legal certainty”, he said.

The EPO has 39 member states, comprising all 27 members of the EU and non-member countries. 

The National Intellectual Property Centre said Georgia would become the fifth non-member country with the validation status, and the 45th state where patent protection would be possible on the basis of a European patent application.