EPO Meets with the German Association of Industry IP Experts

By Editorial Team

On March 25, the European Patent Office (EPO) welcomed a delegation from the German Association of Industry IP Experts (VPP) at its headquarters in Munich. The meeting aimed to discuss shared priorities and explore opportunities for enhanced collaboration between the two organizations.

The EPO delegation, led by Vice-President Legal and International Affairs Christoph Ernst, engaged with VPP representatives from companies like Siemens, BASF, and Infineon, along with the association's President, Peter Berg. The discussions focused on key developments in the European patent system and strategies to strengthen support for innovation.

Fostering Innovation and Economic Growth

VPP emphasized the importance of fostering technology transfer, supporting startups, and encouraging economic growth through innovation. The association highlighted the need for a collaborative approach to innovation that involves all patent system users. VPP also expressed support for the conceptualization of a national IP strategy for Germany and recognized the value of EPO studies and tools like the Deep Tech Finder and Patent Standards explorer in informing strategic decisions.

Unitary Patent System and AI Integration

The discussions also touched upon the growing momentum of the Unitary Patent system, particularly among smaller businesses in Europe. The delegates acknowledged the role of the system in facilitating innovation and scaling inventions for smaller entities. Additionally, both parties agreed on the importance of integrating AI into patent operations to enhance efficiency and quality. VPP commended the EPO for its AI policy, emphasizing the need for a human-centric approach to AI implementation.

Quality Action Plan and Future Initiatives

The EPO's Quality Action Plan 2026, which includes measures to enhance efficiency and quality through AI integration, was also a key topic of discussion. VPP was pleased to learn about the Industry Lecture series and the upcoming Science and Technology Forums, initiatives aimed at keeping EPO examiners updated on technological advancements and strengthening connections between science and the patent system.

Both the EPO and VPP affirmed their commitment to collaborating further to improve accessibility to the patent system and support innovation.

For more information, visit the EPO website.