< Back to all publications

Thailand Introduces the ‘Target Design Patent Fast-Track: Green Innovation’ Programme

Building on the success of the ‘Target Patent Fast-Track’ Programme for Invention and Petty Patent Applications launched on 8th December 2023—originally covering ‘Medical Sciences & Public Health’ and ‘Future Food,’ and recently expanded to include ‘Green Innovation’—Thailand’s Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) has unveiled another initiative: the ‘Target Design Patent Fast-Track: Green Innovation’ Programme. This new programme focuses specifically on Design Patent Applications (hereinafter referred to as “Application” or “application”) and aims to expedite the registration of environmentally friendly Industrial Designs. By recognising the severe impacts of climate change and promoting sustainable consumption and production, the DIP’s initiative reaffirms Thailand’s commitment to fostering eco-friendly advancements and enhancing the nation’s global competitiveness in green innovation.

Eligibility and Application

1. Eligibility: The programme is open to both Thai and foreign applicants.

2. Application Period: Requests for the Target Design Patent Fast-Track: Green Innovation can be filed between the 1st and 10th of each month, starting from January 2025.

3. Application Criteria:
o The Design Patent Application must have been published and must not be subject to any oppositions.
o Applicants must submit evidence demonstrating that the Industrial Design has commercial potential and is ready for market use.
o The application must be filed in Thailand as the first country.
o The application must be submitted via the DIP’s E-Filing System.
o All required documents must be fully and correctly submitted.

Conditions for Applications Under the ‘Target Design Patent Fast-Track: Green Innovation’ Programme

1. Response to Office Action: Applicants must respond to any Office Action within 30 days. Failure to do so will result in the application being moved back to the regular track examination process.

2. Opposition: If an opposition is filed against the application, it will return to the regular track examination process.

3. Conflicting Applications: If a prior application exists for the same Industrial Design filed by another applicant, the application will return to the regular track examination process.

4. First Communication: The DIP will issue its first communication regarding the application within three months from the date the application is deemed eligible for the Target Design Patent Fast-Track: Green Innovation Programme.

5. Application Limitations: Each applicant is limited to one application per month.

Conclusion

With the introduction of the ‘Target Design Patent Fast-Track: Green Innovation’ Programme, Thailand reinforces its dedication to environmental sustainability by accelerating the registration process for eco-friendly Industrial Designs. This initiative not only encourages the development of sustainable designs but also strengthens Thailand’s position as a leader in green innovation on the global stage.