Greetings! Today we look back on 2022 and bring up some items that may have greatest impact for the future of IP prosecution and protection in the years to come.
Policy and Program Changes
April 1 The end of “multi-multi” compound dependency claims in Japan (reported February 24)
June 1 Japan Patent Office takes up role as ISA and IPEA for a thirteenth state (reported May 26)
October 1 Pirated (trademark infringing) goods mailed into Japan officially subject to investigation (reported July 28)
October 11 Tokyo Business Court opens for more streamlined, integrated IP litigation (reported August 25)
Litigation Moments
There were also continuing IP litigation stories such as
1) Nippon Steel’s taking on Toyota and Mitsui (reported February 3)
2) Discussion of trade secrets after a sushi competitor leak (reported October 17),
3) Resolution of the JASRAC-vs-music school dispute (reported October 29)
There was more, but we hope this helps you cover any missed newsflashes, reflect on the new-and-old world of Japanese IP, and even have some fun.
May there be greater peace and goodwill as this year ends. Japan celebrates the new year with many wishes for health and prosperity. We also wish you a good new year in 2023.
