TOKYO, July 26, 2013 -- Ajinomoto Co., Inc and Ajinomoto Eurolysine S.A.S. (collectively “Companies”) have filed a new patent infringement suit against Global Bio-chem Technology Group Company Ltd. with its 3 subsidiaries (collectively GBT), before the District Court in The Hague, the Netherlands on July 25, 2013 (local time). So far various courts in Europe have issued injunctions against GBT. However, Companies claim that GBT infringes another patent owned by Ajinomoto Co. Inc. Companies request the court to order GBT to stop selling infringing lysine immediately, to recall already sold lysine and also to pay the damages.
Companies have recently requested the authorities to seize several samples of GBT lysine sold in Europe. After careful analysis Companies are of the opinion that lysine presently sold by GBT infringes Ajinomoto Co. Inc.’s patents. Companies are therefore forced to initiate new patent enforcement proceedings. In the new proceedings, Companies assert a new European Patent (EP 1 664 318) which is valid until 2025. This patent is different from the three patents for which Companies filed complaints against GBT in the Netherlands and other European countries. Equivalent patents for EP 1 664 318 exist for many countries outside of Europe.
The Ajinomoto Group has been making intensive investments in R&D for advanced production technologies for amino acids and has committed itself to contribute to the feed & animal nutrition industry as world-leading amino acid producing company. The Ajinomoto Group believes that infringement of its intellectual property obstructs its R&D efforts and therefore the Ajinomoto Group will continue to pursue necessary measures to protect its legitimate rights.
About Ajinomoto Co.
Ajinomoto Co. is a global manufacturer of high-quality seasonings, processed foods, beverages, amino acids, pharmaceuticals and specialty chemicals. For many decades Ajinomoto Co. has contributed to food culture and human health through wide-ranging application of amino acid technologies. Today, the company is becoming increasingly involved with solutions for improved food resources, human health and global sustainability. Founded in 1909 and now operating in 26 countries, Ajinomoto Co. had net sales of JPY 1,172.4 billion (USD 14.1 billion) in fiscal 2012. For more about Ajinomoto Co., (TYO: 2802), visit www.ajinomoto.com.
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