In this episode, we focus on Japan’s new First Filing Obligation, introduced in May 2024 as part of the broader Non-Disclosure System for Patent Applications. This obligation prohibits certain inventions made in Japan from being filed abroad before filing in Japan, especially if they relate to sensitive technologies. We explain the background of this new rule, the types of inventions it covers, and the steps foreign companies and inventors should take to comply. We also compare the two available routes — domestic filing and prior confirmation — and discuss practical strategies for securing foreign patent rights without delay.