The Italian government has re-introduced filing and maintenance fees for patents.

The fees, which were cancelled for Italian patents and European patents valid in Italy on 1 January 2006, were re-introduced in a Decree dated 2 April, which amended the earlier provisions.

Under the decree, fees will also be levied for other services, including search reports for patent and utility model applications.

The new regulations will not apply to universities or public bodies involved in research activities, which will continue to pay no fees.

(EPO)