This week marks five years since the entry into force of a validation agreement between the European Patent Organisation and the State Agency on Intellectual Property of the Republic of Moldova (AGEPI). Under the agreement companies and inventors from Europe and around the world are able to easily broaden the scope of their European patent protection to the Republic of Moldova.

Meeting virtually earlier this month, European Patent Office President António Campinos and AGEPI Director General Viorel Iustin discussed the latest developments in bilateral co-operation, and in particular the validation of European patents. The validation system brings advantages for patent applicants, while increasing the attractiveness of the Moldovan economy and fostering foreign investment. The agreement also allows AGEPI to concentrate its resources on supporting local innovators, in particular universities and SMEs, in order to foster the national innovation ecosystem.

Currently, an average of 105 validation fees for European patent applications are paid every month for Moldova, with no noticeable slowdown despite the Covid-19 crisis. The renewal of the agreement earlier this month now means that it will be in force for at least the next five years.

(Source: European Patent Office)