Interim Report Formulated Regarding the Study Group on Licensing Environment of Standard Essential Patents

In recent years, disputes have arisen worldwide on licensing of standard essential patents (SEPs) due to the widespread use of standards and the complication of technologies required for such standards. In particular, as the Fourth Industrial Revolution progresses in which many products will be computerized and processing data will create new added-value, SEP licensing among different industries, especially those in which Japan has strengths (e.g., automobiles, construction machinery and factories), is expected to expand in the future. Therefore, it is very important for Japan to consider measures to resolve smoothly such disputes.

In light of this situation, the Competition Enhancement Office and the Intellectual Property Policy Office of Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) held the “Study Group on Licensing Environment of Standard Essential Patents” and, with the attendance of experts and industries, reviewed the international situation surrounding the SEP licensing negotiation. The study group also discussed the measures preferable for Japan.

This report summarizes the results of the discussion in the study group’s first to fifth meetings (held on March 12 and July 12, 2021 respectively), and shows the direction of further consideration.

Based on the report, METI will consider policies aimed at improving the licensing environment of SEPs.

Report

• Study Group on Licensing Environment of Standard Essential Patents Interim Report (Overview) (PDF:476KB)

Note: This is a provisional translation of the original report, and is subject to revision for purposes of accuracy.

Related links

• Meetings of the Study Group on Licensing Environment of Standard Essential Patents (in Japanese)

Division in Charge

Competition Enhancement Office, Economic and Industrial Policy Bureau

Intellectual Property Policy Office, Economic and Industrial Policy Bureau