What Is a New Plant Variety?

A New Plant Variety refers to a plant that has been bred or discovered and is distinct, uniform, and stable in its characteristics. This can include new types of fruits, vegetables, grains, flowers, or other cultivated plants.

To be eligible for protection, a plant variety must be:

New: Not commercially exploited for more than one year prior to the application.

Distinct: Clearly distinguishable from existing varieties.

Uniform: Consistent in its essential traits across multiple specimens.

Stable: Retains its characteristics after repeated propagation.

Key Benefits of Protection:

Exclusive Rights: You alone can produce, sell, and license the variety.

Market Advantage: Enhance your credibility and secure a competitive edge.

Economic Incentives: License your variety to others and generate revenue.

Support for Innovation: Encourages further breeding and sustainable agriculture.

Protection typically lasts for up to 20–25 years, depending on the type of plant.

Step-by-Step Process for Protecting a New Plant Variety:

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Ensure the plant variety meets the criteria of being new, distinct, uniform, and stable.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application:

Include the following in your submission:

Completed Application Form
Botanical and common names of the variety
Description of the plant’s characteristics
Proof of the variety’s novelty and distinctiveness
Supporting documents (e.g., photographs, test results)

Step 3: Submit the Application

Deliver your completed application to the Intellectual Property Office. Submission may be done in person or by mail.

Step 4: Examination & Evaluation

The IPO will review your application for completeness and may conduct technical evaluations or request expert assessments

Step 5: Grant of Rights

If approved, you’ll be granted Plant Breeder’s Rights, providing you exclusive control over the commercial use of the variety.

Nurture Innovation. Protect Your Plant Variety.

Secure your rights as a breeder and benefit from your agricultural breakthrough.  Learn More About Plant Variety Protection or contact the IPO for guidance on submitting your application.

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