What is a “Contracting Party” in the context of international design applications?

In the context of international design applications, a “Contracting Party” is defined by the Hague Agreement. According to MPEP 2904:

“Article 1(xiii) defines a ‘Contracting Party’ as a State or intergovernmental organization that is a party to the Hague Agreement.”

This means that a Contracting Party can be either:

  • A State that has joined the Hague Agreement
  • An intergovernmental organization that is a party to the Hague Agreement

The status of Contracting Parties is important because it determines who is eligible to file international design applications and which territories can be designated for protection.

To learn more:

Topics: MPEP 2900 - International Design Applications, MPEP 2904 - Who May File An International Design Application, Patent Law, Patent Procedure
Tags: Contracting Party, Hague Agreement, International Design Application, patent law, Wipo