Global IP Tracking: Singapore Launches Patent and Trademark Acceleration Programmes

Recently, the Intellectual Property Office of Singapore (IPOS) introduced the Patents and Trade Marks Acceleration programmes to help applicants receive examination outcomes faster. Replacing last year’s SG IP Fast pilot programme, these initiatives have simplified eligibility criteria based on industry feedback, thereby enhancing the efficiency of Singapore’s IP acceleration process.

I. SG Patents Fast Programme

The SG Patents Fast programme offers two acceleration options:

• SG Patents Fast 4: First examination report issued within 4 months after successful application.

• SG Patents Fast 8: First examination report issued within 8 months after successful application.
  Subsequent examination reports will be issued within 4 months of each response.
  Eligibility requirements:

• The patent application must not be a Singapore divisional application.

• The accelerated application must contain no more than 20 claims.

• Acceleration fees apply.

II. SG Trade Marks Fast Programme

The SG Trade Marks Fast programme ensures applicants receive either the first examination report or an acceptance notice within 3‒6 weeks after successful application.
Eligibility requirements:

• Applications must be domestic trademark filings submitted directly to IPOS.

• Not applicable to certification or collective marks.

• Acceleration fees are charged per class; for multi-class applications, acceleration automatically applies to all classes.

III. Government Schemes Supporting IP Registration Costs

Similar to IP application fees, IP acceleration fees qualify for tax deductions. Under Singapore’s Enterprise Innovation Scheme (EIS):

• Businesses engaged in trade or commerce may claim enhanced tax deductions on eligible IP registration costs;

• Alternatively, qualifying businesses may convert eligible expenditures into cash payments to offset innovation expenses.

Concurrently, the Enterprise Development Grant (EDG) supports the growth and transformation of Singapore-based enterprises. The EDG funds qualifying projects, including:

• Third-party consultancy fees;

• Software and equipment;

• Internal manpower costs;

• IP registration and acceleration fees;

• Other critical project costs.