On February 3, the PCT Committee for Technical Cooperation (CTC) successfully concluded its thirty-third session, with outcomes that reinforce long-term stability, transparency and efficiency for PCT users.
The Committee’s advice to the Assembly of the PCT Union (PCT Assembly) covers the continued role of existing International Searching and Preliminary Examining Authorities (ISAs/IPEAs), the possible appointment of a new Authority, and a modernized agreement framework designed to improve access to timely, authoritative information for applicants.
Key meeting outcomes
This year’s Committee, chaired by Indian Patent Office chief Dr. Unnat P. Pandit, advised the PCT Assembly to extend the appointments of all 25 current International Searching and Preliminary Examining Authorities beyond their current expiry date of December 31, 2027. The PCT Assembly will be invited extend these appointments through to the end of 2037 when it reconvenes in Geneva this July.
The Committee also agreed to advise the PCT Assembly on an application by the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI) to be appointed as an ISA/IPEA.
In addition to advising on appointments, the Committee approved a new streamlined model agreement governing the relationship between the International Bureau of WIPO and each International Authority.
Benefits for PCT users
Long-term continuity of international search and examination services
For PCT users, international search and preliminary examination are among the most significant practical benefits of filing a PCT application. These services provide applicants with an early, high-quality assessment of relevant prior art and patentability, helping to reduce uncertainty and support better business and filing decisions.
The long-term extensions recommended by the CTC offer greater predictability and continuity, and ensure PCT user’s uninterrupted access to key services. The extensions also support sustained investment by International Authorities in their own capacity, quality management and technical expertise, further promoting the quality of ISA/IPEA reports and written opinions.
Expanded regional coverage for applicants
The 25 current ISAs/IPEAs are national and regional patent offices located across all major regions, including Africa, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and North America. For applicants, this diverse global network offers broad geographic and linguistic coverage, helps ensure resilience of the PCT System itself, and supports access to high-quality international search and examination services worldwide.
If approved by the Assembly, the appointment of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (IMPI) as ISA/IPEA would further strengthen capacity in Latin America and the Caribbean, increasing local access to international search and examination services by PCT users in the region.
Modernized agreement framework for clearer, more timely information
The modernized ISA/IPEA agreement framework proposed by the Committee improves transparency for PCT users and offers easier access to accurate, up-to-date information.
Under the new model, detailed operational information—such as fees, language arrangements, competencies and other practical conditions—is no longer set out in multiple annexes to individual agreements. Instead, this information is managed through standardized notifications published in the PCT Gazette and reflected in the PCT Applicant’s Guide as a convenient, centralized source of information.
Subject to approval by the PCT Assembly this July, the new agreements and related amendments to the PCT Regulations would enter into force on 1 January 2028.
About PCT International Authorities
Under the PCT System, International Searching Authorities (ISAs) and International Preliminary Examining Authorities (IPEAs) are national or regional patent offices authorized to carry out these key international phase tasks, which result in international search reports and written opinions on patentability.
Together, these services help applicants evaluate their inventions at an early stage, refine their claims, and make informed decisions about where and how to pursue patent protection.
About the CTC
Established under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), the CTC’s primary role is to advise the PCT Assembly on matters related to the technical and administrative aspects of the PCT System, particularly concerning international search and examination.
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