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Virtual helpdesk
It can be difficult to understand the patent systems or interpret patent information from Asia correctly, even for people who speak Japanese, Chinese or Korean. We at the EPO offer any support we can to make patent information from Japan, China and Korea more easily accessible and understandable.
Our virtual helpdesk provides answers to the most frequently asked questions on patents and patent information in China, India, Japan and Korea. You can also find background information on filing trends and granting procedures and some guidance on common patent terminology of Asian patents.
China
From 2004 to 2005, the Chinese patent office saw an increase of 34% in IP applications and this trend is expected to continue in the coming years.
India
The figures for patent applications in India tripled between the years 2000 and 2006, and filings by local Indian applicants are rising steadily.
Japan
With some 400 000 new applications filed at the Japanese patent office every year, Japanese patent literature simply cannot be ignored in prior art searches.
Korea
The Korean patent office is the world's fourth biggest patent office in terms of industrial property applications.
Patent trends
Recent statistics show a surge in innovative activities in Asian countries. Find out more about patent trends and filing figures in Asia and at the EPO.
Unanswered questions?
If you cannot find the answer you are looking for in our FAQ section, you can write to us using our form. If your question is of general interest, and if you agree, we will add it, together with our answer, to the FAQ site.