The European Patent Office (EPO) and the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) have agreed to extend their joint PCT International Searching Authority (ISA) pilot programme until November 30, 2031. The extension allows nationals and residents of China to continue designating the EPO as their ISA when filing international patent applications.

Since its launch in December 2020, more than 770 Chinese enterprises, universities, and research institutes have used the scheme, benefiting from high-quality search reports, faster entry into the European phase, and reduced costs. The programme accepts up to 3,000 applications per year, filed in English, and continues to provide applicants with both procedural advantages and fee reductions.

This extension reflects the growing cooperation between the EPO and CNIPA and reaffirms their shared commitment to supporting innovators in accessing European patent protection more efficiently.