Introduction
The Taiwan Intellectual Property Office (TIPO) and the French National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) jointly announced the launch of the Taiwan-France Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) MOTTAINAI Pilot Program, effective July 1, 2025. This program is aimed to streamline the patent examination process between the two nations, enhancing efficiency, reducing costs and fostering international cooperation in intellectual property protection.

Overview of the PPH Pilot Program
The PPH program allows applicants whose patents have been approved in one participating country to request accelerated examination in the other, leveraging prior examination results. The Taiwan-France PPH pilot program is designed to expedite reviews on patent applications, increase approval rates and facilitate faster market entry for innovative technologies. By reducing administrative burdens and costs, the program supports applicants in strengthening their global patent portfolios and enhancing competitiveness.

Key Details of the Program
• Launch Date: July 1, 2025
• Participating Agencies: Taiwan Intellectual Property Office (TIPO) and French National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI)
• Program Name: TIPO-INPI PPH MOTTAINAI Pilot Program
• Objective: Accelerate patent examination, improve approval efficiency and promote international protection of innovative technologies.
• Benefits for Applicants:
• Taiwanese applicants can use TIPO-approved patents to request accelerated examination at INPI, improving approval rates and reducing processing time.
• Faster patent grants enable quicker market entry, cost savings and enhanced global competitiveness.

Resources and Support
TIPO has established a dedicated section on its website (https://www.tipo.gov.tw/patents-tw/lp-1121-101.html) to support the PPH program. This section includes:
• The TIPO-INPI PPH operational guidelines (available in Chinese and English).
• Guidance for Taiwanese applicants filing PPH requests with INPI.
• An updated “Invention Patent PPH Examination Application Form” (available at https://www.tipo.gov.tw/patents-tw/cp-712-870315-5f678-101.html) tailored to meet applicant needs.
These resources aim to simplify the application process and ensure clarity for stakeholders.


Future Outlook
Both TIPO and INPI are committed to deepening their collaboration on intellectual property rights. The success of this pilot program could pave the way for expanded PPH agreements with other countries, further integrating Taiwan into the global intellectual property framework. The program aligns with broader goals of fostering innovation, supporting economic growth, and promoting international partnerships.


(Translated and summarized from the “Hot News” section of the TIPO website)