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.
In May 2024, the Tokyo District Court ruled on the DABUS patent application, concluding that an AI cannot be recognized as an inventor under Japanese patent law.
Now, in January 2025, the Intellectual Property High Court has issued its decision on the appeal. In this episode, Patent Attorney Yuya Kuroda provides an update on this important case, breaking down the court’s reasoning, how it aligns with global trends, and what it means for AI-generated inventions in Japan.
In this episode, we examine the key provisions of the Japanese Patent Act, Article 102, covering the three main methods for determining damages: lost profits, the infringer’s profits, and reasonable royalties. We also discuss recent legislative amendments aimed at enhancing patent protection, including the 2020 revisions, as well as significant rulings by the Intellectual Property High Court. This episode is essential listening for patent professionals and anyone interested in the evolving framework of Japanese patent litigation. We invite you to tune in and stay informed on these critical developments.
- Statistics from the Intellectual Property High Court of Japan
https://www.ip.courts.go.jp/vc-files/ip/2024/j_sintoukeiH26_R5.pdf
- Case No. 2022(R2) (Ne) 10024
https://www.ip.courts.go.jp/vc-files/ip/2022/Re2ne10024-zen.pdf
- Japan Patent & Trademark Update Issue 24
https://www.tmi.gr.jp/uploads/2023/07/24/jptu_issue24.pdf
- Ms. Moeha HOSONUMA
https://www.tmi.gr.jp/people/m-hosonuma.html
- Mr. Yuya KURODA
https://www.tmi.gr.jp/people/y-kuroda.html
This episode is part of the Software Patent Series which looks at things to be aware of when filing software-related patent applications in Japan. In the field of software patents, Subject Matter Eligibility can differ from country to country. In this episode, we talk about the requirements for Subject Matter Eligibility under the Japanese Patent Law. In particular, we go over the statutory definition of "invention," as well as the categories stipulated in the Examination Guidelines issued by the Japan Patent Office. Further, we explain some key points to keep in mind when drafting claims for software patents.
<Materials referred to in the episode >
• Examination Guidelines for Patent and Utility Model in Japan
https://www.jpo.go.jp/e/system/laws/rule/guideline/patent/tukujitu_kijun/index.html
• Examination Handbook for Patent and Utility Model in Japan
https://www.jpo.go.jp/e/system/laws/rule/guideline/patent/handbook_shinsa/index.html
Presenter: Yuya Kuroda
In this first episode, we are going to provide an introduction to TMI Associates and let you know some information about the intellectual property practice at our firm. Further, several of our colleagues, Hiroki Sato, Tomohiro Kuribayashi, and Yuya Kuroda, will have a brief discussion about some of TMI’s strengths and unique points.
Presenters: Hiroki Sato, Tomohiro Kuribayashi, and Yuya Kuroda