China to Grade Patent Agencies and Agents

The China National Intellectual Property Administration recently launched a pilot programme in relation to credit evaluation of patent agencies and agents in Hebei, Jiangsu, Hunan and Sichuan provinces. The first round of credit information collection began on 1 February and will last until 30 June. Patent agencies and agents will be categorised into four grades based on their credit rating. Evaluation results will be announced on 1 July and supervision measures for the respective grades will be implemented.