Chinese Premier Li Qiang has signed a decree of the State Council to unveil a set of revised rules for implementing the patent law.

The rules specify that the electronic form of documents shall be regarded as written form to facilitate the patent application for applicants.

The rules refine the patent review system and improve the quality of patent review.

Regarding safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of patentees, the rules add a dedicated section on compensation during the patent term, specifying the conditions and time for applying for compensation and compensation scope.

The revised rules will take effect on Jan. 20, 2024.