The European Patent Office (EPO) and the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) have agreed on a comprehensive three-year technical co-operation scheme. This agreement is the first of its kind between the two institutions, aimed at improving the procedural framework of the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT). The co-operation also focuses on enhancing the quality and efficiency of the patent granting process, including patent classification and searching, and improving access to patent information. The agreement foresees establishing annual work plans of co-operation activities in areas of mutual interest surrounding the PCT. Among the deliverables are the fully electronic exchange of PCT documents and an enhanced digital exchange of patent information products.

Source: Press release: EPO and WIPO sign agreement to enhance co-operation, 3 May 2012.