WIPO added Israel to list of 15 leading countries in patent search and testing

As a WIPO test center Israel is obligated to meet high standards of quality assurance systems
 
The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), an international organization dedicated to promoting the use and protection of works of the human mind added last week Israel to list of 15 leading countries in patent search, testing. Patent applications recognized in Israel will be recognized internationally as well.
 
With headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, WIPO is one of the 16 specialized agencies of the United Nations system of organizations. It administers 23 international treaties dealing with different aspects of intellectual property protection. The Organization counts 183 nations as member states.
 
The decision to recognize Israel as an International center for the search and testing of patents was made during WIPO annual assembly meeting, which took place at the end of September.
 
WIPO's recognition of Israel as an international center for patent, search and testing entails meeting several conditions, including at least 100 patent testers and minimal documentation in databases forpatent search.
 
As a WIPO test center Israel is obligated to meet high standards of quality assurance systems.
 
In practical terms, the decision means that people outside of Israel will be able to apply for patent testing and upon approval from Israel the patent will also be recognized internationally. Up until now such applications, whether from Israeli or foreign citizens, did not receive international recognition after having been recognized by Israel.