Should I patent my invention or keep it as a trade secret?

By: Amer Al-Nasser/ AGIP Nordic

Deciding between patenting your invention or protecting it as a trade secret depends on your business goals, industry, and the nature of your innovation. 
Patents grant you exclusive rights for up to 20 years, allowing you to commercialize, license, or sell your invention while preventing others from copying it. 

However, patents require public disclosure and can be costly to file and maintain. On the other hand, trade secrets, such as formulas, processes, or proprietary methods (like a famous soft drink recipe), have no expiration date but rely on strict confidentiality measures to remain protected. 

If your invention can be easily reverse-engineered, a patent is the safer choice. However, if secrecy gives you a competitive edge and is hard to replicate, a trade secret may be more effective. 
Consulting an IP attorney can help you assess the best strategy to protect your innovation while maximizing its commercial potential.

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