#Japan #Tokyo #European Patent #RWS Group #UPC

Free Seminar on European Patent Validation

RWS Group, based in the UK, is set to hold an insightful and free seminar aimed at Japanese companies' intellectual property (IP) departments on May 25, 2026. The seminar will delve into the latest developments in the European Patent system, particularly in relation to the validation processes that businesses must navigate. TMI General Legal Firm's Patent Attorney, Takahiro Takeuchi, will share insights from his expertise, discussing changes in the European patent landscape and practical considerations required for effective strategy.

Understanding Changes in European Patent Systems

The introduction of the Unitary Patent (UP) and the Unified Patent Court (UPC) has diversified options for patent registration in Europe. However, for many Japanese enterprises, traditional procedures surrounding applications for European Patents (EP) and validations in various countries remain central to their European patent strategies. Therefore, the need for long-term decision-making, accounting for costs of rights acquisition, risk diversification, and compliance with national requirements, has never been more crucial. Issues such as differing validation requirements across countries, management of deadlines, and continued adaptation to system changes add to the burdens of intellectual property management and can significantly affect business operations.

The seminar will address the following key areas:

• - Current Trends Surrounding European Patents and Validation
• - Points of Consideration for IP Departments in Companies Operating in Europe
• - Re-evaluating Long-term European Patent Strategies

The discussion will blend global perspectives with practical and managerial insights tailored for Japanese businesses.

Latest Survey on European Patent Applications

In preparation for this seminar, RWS is conducting a Survey on the Current State of European Applications by Japanese Firms. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the survey findings, including industry-wide trends and common challenges faced by IP professionals in Japan, through a panel discussion format.

Note: The survey aims to capture trends across the industry, and no individual companies will be identified in the results.

Release of the European Patent Validation Guidebook

Additionally, coinciding with the seminar, RWS has published an European Patent Validation Guide, targeted at IP practitioners in Japanese firms. This practical guide summarizes the latest overview of European patent validation and examines how strategic post-grant decision-making has evolved alongside the introduction of the Unitary Patent. Packed with comprehensive validation requirements by country, this guide serves as a valuable resource for professionals.

This guidebook will be distributed to seminar participants and can be utilized as material for consideration in European validation practices.

Seminar Details

• - Event Name: Future Forum 2026 Tokyo
• - Theme: Patent Strategies in the UPC Era - Distinguishing Between Single Patent and EP Validation
• - Date and Time: May 25, 2026 (Monday)
• - Format: In-person / Free entry (registration required) / Networking session available
• - Speakers: Patent Attorney Takahiro Takeuchi from TMI General Legal Firm and others

Main Content (Tentative)

• - Introduction of recent practices regarding European patent rights
• - Discussion based on applicant survey findings
• - Overview of RWS's application support services

For more information and to register, visit the event page.

About RWS's European Patent Validation Services

RWS provides global support services for Japanese companies, covering translation and validation for European patent applications, pension payments, and management. Leveraging extensive operational experience and adaptability to various country requirements, we assist in alleviating the workload of IP departments.