ARIPO joins Global PPH pilot
On 6 January 2026, the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO) joined the Global Patent Prosecution Highway (GPPH) pilot, increasing the number of participating Offices to 29 and expanding opportunities for accelerated patent examination in this regional jurisdiction.
GPPH benefits for applicants
Accelerated examination by leveraging favourable work products from another participating Office.
Potentially reduced prosecution costs through earlier resolution of patentability issues and fewer examination cycles.
Greater flexibility in coordinating global prosecution strategies across multiple jurisdictions.
A simplified and harmonised framework compared with earlier PPH arrangements.
Action points for applicants
Review pending ARIPO applications to assess whether they may be eligible for accelerated examination under the GPPH.
Identify any positive work products (e.g. PCT written opinions or IPRPs) from participating Offices that could support a GPPH request.
Consider incorporating the GPPH into filing and prosecution strategies to reduce examination timelines and associated costs.
Monitor further developments and additional Offices joining the GPPH pilot, as this may expand acceleration opportunities.
If you would like to assess whether your ARIPO applications are eligible for the GPPH or discuss how this development may support your wider filing strategy, please contact our team.
