September 21, 2018

Since its launch, it has been possible to file applications to the Community Plant Variety Office (CPVO) using the UPOV PRISMA tool for 5 pilot species. Following a successful collaboration between the CPVO and UPOV, this system has now been extensively developed and from now on, breeders can file an application for EU plant variety rights to the CPVO through the UPOV PRISMA tool for almost all species in the vegetable, ornamental and fruit sectors.

This new possibility will significantly benefit breeders applying for plant variety protection in the EU and in any other jurisdiction of the 29 UPOV members, covering 69 countries who are partners to UPOV PRISMA. For a given variety, application data can be re-used from one jurisdiction to the other, thereby dramatically reducing the administrative work entailed in the process.

The CPVO developments make the EU the first UPOV member to establish a computer to computer link to UPOV PRISMA: applications from UPOV PRISMA are transferred on request of the applicant to the EU online application system where they must be finalized and signed by the applicant. The CPVO accepts applications through UPOV PRISMA in any EU language. Applicable CPVO fees will apply and there will be no extra costs to apply through UPOV PRISMA, until at least the end of December 2018. The CPVO encourages breeders to use this new possibility to make applications and to protect their new varieties.

Further details on UPOV PRISMA can be found in the UPOV website.

Website: http://www.cpvo.europa.eu

Published: September 21, 2018