10 Interesting Things To Know About IP Filings in Papua New Guinea

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If you are considering filing a trademark, patent or design application with the PNG Intellectual Property Office either directly or through a local agent, here are a few practical tips to take note of.

1. IP applications cannot be filed electronically. Applications need to be physically filed at the Registry.
2. IP application fees cannot be paid electronically. Cash isn’t accepted so you will have to pay by cheque or EFTPOS. Some overseas clients pay via Western Union however this can, ironically, cause considerable delay as the funds need to be collected, receipted and attached to the relevant application documents.
3. PCT Request Form is mandatory. The Registry will not process a national phase entry for patents without the PCT Request Form. If an application is entering national phase via the PCT route, the PCT Request Form is mandatory. The PCT Request form essentially replaces the prescribed application form.
4. No cash refund. It is critical that you pay the correct amount for a fee that is payable with an application. Reason being, the Registry does not often issue refunds but rather holds in trust for future payments for that client. Always calculate the correct fees!
5. The Official Journal is not online. It is only available by subscription and posted to the subscriber’s address for service.
6. Administrative Delays – Due to the significant number of applications the Registry processes (and the very tight number of staff that handle them), administrative delays can be expected. Frequent and consistent follow ups with the Registry is necessary.
7. Substantive examination of Patent applications are usually conducted in Australia.
8. The Registry does not “send out” official correspondence to clients. These are picked up from the Registry at the allocated pigeon holes.
9. Date of dispatch of correspondence – The date of dispatch of an official correspondence, is the date an officer of the Registry places the correspondence in the client’s allocated pigeon hole. Not dispatched direct to the applicant or its address for service.
10. The official journal is published quarterly.The dates are 24 March, 24 June, 24 September and surprisingly 24 December.

The above is just for information purposes from a practical perspective.

Protect your most prized assets!

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