How long will the pilot last?

The pilot project will run until 30 November 2026. The first phase started on 1 December 2020 for a two-year period. The EPO and CNIPA then agreed to a one-year extension, starting on 1 December 2022, followed by an additional three-year extension until 30 November 2026. For applications filed on or after 1 December 2024, the international search fee is to be paid in Chinese Yuan (CNY) directly with CNIPA. 

The results of the pilot project will continue to be monitored, and a decision will be made in due course on what the next steps will be and the possibility of further extensions.