ANVISA, until mid-2017, assuming the role of INPI, issued opinions on the patentability of the invention, granting or not prior consent based on patentability criteria - instead of sticking to public health issues, as would be ANVISA’s expected competence on this matter. As a result, many of the applications not allowed by ANVISA were in limbo when returning to the INPI, which did not accept ANVISA's interference in the examination of these applications.
Needless to say, the proceedings, on this basis, was unduly delayed. The discussion, not infrequently, ended up in court. As a way to resolve this issue, in mid-2017, by means of a Joint Ordinance, ANVISA started to grant - or not - prior consent to applications in the light of public health, any opinion on the patentability of the invention being considered merely third parties' observations by the INPI. This improved the processing of applications, which were no longer in limbo. However, it did not solve the issue of delay.
Finally, a few days ago, ANVISA's history of interference in the processing of patent applications came to an end, with the revocation of Article 229-C. ANVISA and INPI are yet to comment on the matter. However, it is expected that this measure, in line with INPI's plans to combat the examination backlog, will further benefit applicants, and encourage new filings of patent applications in Brazil.
FICPI’s view and involvement
FICPI is the only organisation exclusively for independent IP attorneys and makes the world a little bit smaller, bringing independent IP attorneys from around the world together to connect, share knowledge and grow through news, blogs, events and committees.
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Use FICPI’s member directory to find members in Brazil and across the world
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Consider getting involved with one of FICPI’s eight Study & Work Committees in areas such as Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals; International Patents.