With the global increase in awareness for intellectual properties, globalization and harmonization of systems have been sought, and new approaches such as PPH have been commonly introduced in many countries. There are, however, still many significant differences among the practices of various countries, and close associations with experienced overseas patent law firms are absolutely necessary. Over the long business history, we have developed good relationships with colleagues in many countries. Over time, foreign filing portfolios have been gradually shifting from Western oriented to sometimes being more focused on Asia, but our relationship of mutual trust remains unchanged. We collaborate unitedly with our colleagues so that proper rights can be acquired in various countries notwithstanding the differences in legislations.

Conventionally, the main approach was to file in the home country first and consider foreign filings during the priority period, but many numbers of cases are now filed as PCT applications from the beginning. While there are many challenges to meet when foreign filings are envisaged, such as preparing specifications that would comply with laws requiring strict procedures, we will continue to provide global intellectual services in collaboration with our colleagues in overseas countries.