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Fewer patents granted as EPO focuses on quality
19 juin 2008
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The number of European patents granted in 2007 fell compared to the previous year, despite an increase in the number of applications filed at the EPO, according to statistics published in the Annual Report this week.
Last year, the Office granted a total of 54 699 European patents, a drop of 12.9% compared to the 62 777 European patents granted in 2006.
EPO President Alison Brimelow explained earlier this year that this is due to a focus on quality rather than quantity.
"What we need is not more patents, but more good patents," she said. "The EPO aims to make sure that the patents it grants are relevant. The lower number of patents published in 2007 reflects this priority and is a step in the right direction."
This news comes despite an increase in filings at the EPO, with around 140 700 applications filed in 2007, an increase of 3.9% on the previous year.
According to Ms Brimelow, "Putting the emphasis on quality over quantity in the granting of European patents is a key strategy for safeguarding the proper functioning of the European patent system."
The Annual Report 2007, which was published on Tuesday, takes a special look at the challenges facing the office in terms of quality as well as possible solutions.
Further information
- About us: Annual Report 2007