What is the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT)?

The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) is an international treaty that facilitates the process for inventors seeking patent protection in multiple countries. By filing a single initial application under the PCT, inventors can simultaneously seek patent protection in multiple member countries, rather than filing separate applications in each country. This streamlines the process and provides a more efficient means to manage international patent applications, as it delays the need for the inventor to enter each national phase until a later time, allowing them to assess the viability of their invention in various markets.

This treaty primarily serves to simplify the application process and enhance cooperation among countries regarding patent laws, fostering innovation and economic development globally. It is not a licensing agreement, nor does it limit applications to specific fields or serve as a protocol for patent disputes. Instead, it is focused on the initial filing and management of patents across jurisdictions.