The Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) was established to create an efficient mechanism for securing patent rights internationally. Prior to the PCT, inventors faced a complex and often costly process of filing separate patent applications in each country where they sought protection. This led to delays and increased costs, dissuading many from seeking patents beyond their home markets. The PCT was introduced to address these challenges, providing a unified process that would simplify international patent filings.

The first international applications under the PCT were filed on June 1, 1978, marking a pivotal moment in international intellectual property law. This not only simplified the application process but also allowed for a single filing to have legal standing in multiple member countries. The calls for a more collaborative and streamlined approach to patents had been growing since the 1960s, culminating in the formation of the PCT and its administrative framework within the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

The impact of this initial filing was significant, propelling global innovation and entrepreneurship. Applicants could now confidently venture into international markets knowing they had a mechanism in place to protect their inventions. The PCT's success would grow over the decades, eventually leading to widespread adoption by inventors and businesses worldwide, reflecting a growing reliance on intellectual property as a key driver of economic growth.