The news that Qatar has acceded to the Patent Convention Treaty (the PCT), with effect from 3 August 2011, appears to give rise to an unusual situation of progress without movement.

In one sense, the fact that Qatar is joining the PCT is genuine progress. Rights owners with an interest in Qatar may look forward to making use of the international system offered by the PCT in order to obtain protection in Qatar more efficiently and effectively than is available under the current system.

However, the situation on the ground in Qatar (from both a legislative and a practical perspective) is very different. The reality appears to be that the introduction of the PCT in Qatar will not give rise to any immediate change in practice.

Qatar patents-The legislative and practical position