Argentina INPI Abolishes Restrictions on Drug Patent Examination

Release Time：2026-03-27 10:42Author：Views：11

The National Institute of Industrial Property of Argentina (INPI), jointly with the Ministry of Economy and the Ministry of Health, has adopted a resolution to formally abolish the regulations implemented since 2012. Previously, these regulations restricted INPI's authority to independently evaluate drug patent applications.

This initiative is not only an important part of the Argentine government's efforts to promote structural transformation, but also a direct measure to implement the trade agreement signed with the United States. It also responds to the relevant concerns in the "Section 301 Intellectual Property Report" and helps Argentina re-establish its position in the international intellectual property protection system.

It is understood that this old regulation, which has been in effect for more than ten years, not only restricted the growth of R&D investment in the pharmaceutical field, but also led to a gap between Argentina and international standards in terms of intellectual property protection. The abolition of this regulation will effectively change this situation.

In the future, INPI will conduct case-by-case reviews of each drug patent application, maintain complete technical independence, and its review standards will be consistent with those adopted by major intellectual property institutions around the world. The core purpose of this initiative is to stimulate investment vitality in the scientific research field, promote the process of medical innovation, and further improve the accessibility of new therapies.

INPI stated that this decision is a substantive step for the country towards full integration into the international trade and investment system. It not only demonstrates the government's determination to abide by international commitments and standardize market operation rules, but also clarifies the principle that national technical institutions operate independently and rigorously in accordance with the law.

Source：https://www.argentina.gob.ar/noticias/el-inpi-deroga-las-restricciones-al-examen-de-patentes-farmaceuticas

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