President and epi meet for annual bilateral exchange

EPO President António Campinos with epi President Peter Thomsen and their respective delegations

The EPO President welcomed the epi Presidium to the EPO's Munich headquarters for their annual bilateral meeting. The ongoing co-operation between the two organisations provides a strong partnership and a valuable opportunity to share updates and perspectives on the European patent system.​ 

On 19 May 2025, EPO President António Campinos welcomed the Presidium of the Institute of Professional Representatives before the EPO (epi) to Munich for their annual bilateral meeting. This hybrid gathering reaffirmed the strong partnership between the EPO and the European patent profession, facilitating in-depth discussions on current developments in the European patent system and future collaboration.

The meeting primarily focused on the Quality Action Plan 2025, which outlines targeted actions to sustain excellence throughout the patent granting process. This plan, shaped by user feedback and Boards of Appeal outcomes, introduces new key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure progress. Regular updates on these KPIs will be provided on the EPO's Quality dashboard, ensuring transparency and continuous improvement.

Additional discussions addressed the implementation of the new European Qualifying Examination (EQE), with the introduction of Paper F in 2025 representing the first step in the phased reform. The new modular exam structure is designed to better reflect the needs of a modern, digital profession and full implementation is expected by 2027.

The Candidate Support Programme (CSP) was another key topic, with updates shared on the implementation of its revamped framework, which is aimed at addressing the gender gap as well as increasing EQE-qualified representation across all member states. The CSP offers selected candidates financial, coaching and training support to prepare for the EQE or the European Patent Administration Certification (EPAC), fostering accessibility and promoting diversity within the profession.

The EPO and epi also discussed initiatives to boost IP awareness, particularly among SMEs and academic institutions, including with regard to the validation system. Both parties agreed to increase collaboration on these initiatives, recognising the importance of supporting underrepresented innovators and helping small businesses, startups and academic researchers navigate the patent system.

Furthermore, the epi welcomed the EPO's presentation of its study on standards and patents, the ongoing review of the disciplinary system and the progress made with the third basket of legal changes. The Convergence of Practice programme, aimed at harmonising practices across national patent offices and the EPO, was also highlighted as a significant step towards a more uniform and efficient European patent system.

These bilateral meetings form part of the close co-operation between the EPO and the patent profession and are instrumental in fostering high quality and an inclusive, future-oriented European patent system.