Recently, the reporter learned from the SIPO that, from January 1st, 2015, applicants and agents are required to adopt a new "Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) Pilot Project Request Form" when filling in the application of PPH pilot program.

In order to better serve the applicants and agents, SIPO jointed with the PPH partner bureaus and completed the new request form, which would be available since January 1st, 2015, replacing the original request form. And the corresponding requirements would be disclosed at the app window.

PPH is the faster review channel for overseas applicants submitting a patent application. Under PPH, the applicants are expected to be informed more quickly about the examiner's opinion; and it will reduce the cost of patent application, the number of replying the examiner's opinion will be reduced; in addition, the possibility of patent applications to be granted will increase.

(Source: China IP News)