Utility Models in Thailand

Utility Models in Thailand
Weerawit Weeraworawit

ISBN 9789041199263
Kluwer Law International

In the international context, the concept of utility models has been enshrined in the Paris Convention since 1883. But the Paris Convention seems to be more associated with patents, trade marks, and industrial designs. Not too many countries, even those in the developing world, have adopted the utility model system. As far as innovation is concerned, most have opted for invention patents rather than utility models. Utility models should in principle
encourage greater innovation in developing countries as they provide legal protection for simple technological advances not qualified as full-fledged patents because they fail to satisfy the main criteria for patentability, i.e., novelty, inventive step, and industrial applicability. It seems somewhat odd, therefore, that the utility model system has not become widespread and the reasons for this should be examined.