The Council of State of Thailand has completed its third review of the new Draft Patent Act, marking a significant update to the country’s intellectual property framework. The draft introduces substantial changes to existing regulations and is now open for public comments from December 16, 2024, to January 31, 2025.

Unlike amendments to the current Patent Act, this Draft represents a complete overhaul, expanding the Act from 88 sections to 171 sections.

Key proposed changes include increased official fees, revised opposition timelines, a shortened First Publication period (18 months), a reduced timeframe for requesting substantive examination (3 years from the filing date in Thailand), formalized third-party observations, a Second Publication stage post-examination, removal of mandatory foreign examination result submissions, and the introduction of special export licenses for medicines.

These changes aim to enhance clarity, efficiency, and alignment with global standards. Our team is closely analyzing the Draft and its potential impact on patent filings in Thailand.

If you have any inquiries regarding intellectual property matters in Thailand, please don’t hesitate to contact us at mailto:[email protected].

 

Narisara Jessica Sangiumpun

Assistant Director (Thailand) & Head of Enforcement

[email protected]

+6621172272