ARIPO - New official fees for patent and design matters

It has been announced that ARIPO will increase some of its official fees for patent and design matters, which will apply to all new and existing patent cases from 1st March 2025.

Of particular significance for patent cases are marked increases in the official fees for substantive examination, grant and publication, post-grant amendments, restoration and penalties for late payment of renewal fees. In addition, new fees have been introduced for matters such as the late filing of sequence listings, obtaining a hard copy of the certificate of grant, and appeals.

For design cases, the official fees for renewals and the penalty for late renewals have been increased significantly. In addition, similar to patents, new fees have been introduced for obtaining a hard copy of the certificate of grant and for appeals.

In view of these increased fees, we would strongly recommend that applicants consider filing their ARIPO patent applications prior to 1st March 2025 so as to benefit from the current rates. In addition, for the same reason, we would recommend that any upcoming examination and excess claims fees be paid before 1st March 2025.

For any further information or assistance with your IP portfolios in ARIPO, we would be pleased to assist.