The JPO has instituted relief measures for those affected by the Covid-19 outbreak.
Please see the link below for information on eligibility (both for designated and statutory time limits).
https://www.jpo.go.jp/e/news/koho/saigai/covid19_procedures.html
For details on how to file a Request for Extension of Duration and the time limits to file such a request, please see the link below.
https://www.jpo.go.jp/e/news/koho/saigai/covid19_legitimate_reasons.html
The JPO also provides measures to help patent or design applicants having trouble using exceptions to Lack of Novelty of Invention or Design. For more information, please see the links below.
https://www.jpo.go.jp/e/system/laws/rule/other/patent/hatumei_reigai.html
https://www.jpo.go.jp/e/system/laws/rule/other/design/ishou-reigai-tetsuduki.html
We, the staff of Nakamura and Partners, are doing well and working our hardest to provide our services without interruption during this difficult period. Many of our staff is working remotely in order to limit exposure and risk associated with the Covid-19 virus.
If you have any question regarding the above, please feel free to contact us.