Rule #181/2017 – Fast track of applications filed by SME

(BRPTO’s IP gazette of March 1st, 2017)Phase II of the pilot program for fast track applications filed by SME, as defined by Brazilian specific laws, introduces restrictions of technical fields. In case of more than one applicant, all of them must comply with SME definitions.Applications for which IPC (Int’l Patent Classification) main classification is under sections “B” (performing operations and transporting) and “F” (mechanical engineering, lighting, heating, weapons, blasting) are excluded from this program.The applications, both invention or utility models, need to have already been published and their examination requested according to the Brazilian Patent Statute. Other restrictions apply, such as not being an object of some judicial litigation.The project is limited to 150 applications accepted into the Phase II of this program over the next year.The original Portuguese version of Rule #181/2017 is available here. The English version will be available soon.