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New issue:
epi publishes a quarterly journal to inform the members of epi's current activities.
Deadline for epi Information 2|2026: 25 May 2026.
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Welcome
The Institute of Professional Representatives before the European Patent Office (epi) came into existence pursuant to the European Patent Convention (EPC).
Secretariat Closure (June–July 2026)
The epi Secretariat premises will be closed to visitors from 1 June to 31 July 2026 due to renovation works.
The Secretariat team will remain fully operational during this period; however, the premises will not be available for meetings.
Kindly take this into account when planning your activities.
June 05, 2026
After the landmark decision G1/24, which ruled that the description and drawings are always to be consulted when assessing the clarity of claim features, the question arises whether this approach is also appropriate when assessing the requirements of Art. 123(2) EPC, i.e. added subject-matter.
June 02, 2026
Republic of Moldova Joins as 40th Member State of the European Patent Organisation
On behalf of epi, I warmly welcome the Republic of Moldova as the 40th member state of the European Patent Organisation as of 1 June 2026.
This marks the first former validation country that is now becoming a full member state of the European Patent system and facilitates obtaining a geographically broader patent protection. We will also soon be able to welcome new epi members from Moldova once Patent Attorneys who have so far acted before the national State Agency for Intellectual Property (AGEPI) of Moldova follow the 12-months transitional procedure foreseen under the EPC (Art. 134(3)).
Peter R. Thomsen
epi President
epi Council – Past, Present and Future
Pre-Council celebration event on the occasion of 100th Council meeting
Detailsepi Guidelines:
Use of Generative AI
At the Council meeting on 16 November 2024, guidelines for the use of generative AI in the work of patent attorneys were adopted. The guidelines emphasize a responsible use of AI, including informing oneself about the tools one uses, ensuring adequate confidentiality, thoroughly checking any output and being responsible for the final work product. Additionally, being transparent with your clients about the use of generative AI is an aspect to be considered.