The collaboration between the European Patent Office (EPO) and the Government of Costa Rica will make it easier for holders of European patents to introduce their innovations to this market.

On December 13, the European Patent Office (EPO) and the Government of Costa Rica signed a historic agreement, opening new opportunities for European patent holders. This agreement will enable patents granted by the EPO to be validated in this Central American country, with the same effect and under the same conditions as national patents.

Beyond the clear advantages this agreement provides to European patent holders, the collaboration between these two entities symbolizes a bridge between continents and represents a significant milestone. It reflects the commitment of both parties to strengthening innovation and protecting intellectual property, while also opening new avenues for global trade and technological development.

With this agreement, Costa Rica is now the seventh country to sign a validation agreement with the EPO, following Morocco, Moldova, Tunisia, Cambodia, Georgia, and Laos.

As is the case with Laos, the effective date of the agreement has yet to be determined. However, ClarkeModet will closely monitor developments leading to its implementation, providing clients with all the tools necessary to make the most of this new opportunity for their inventions.