We introduce main awards.

In IAM Patent 1000 2026, ABE & PARTNERS is highly evaluated as follows;
“The firm has a great reputation in Japan and leaves a very positive impression.” ABE & PARTNERS is a boutique that punches above its weight in Japanese patent litigation, particularly in pharmaceutical disputes. The Osaka-based team has built a strong reputation acting for major innovator drug companies in high-stakes battles involving invalidation actions, oppositions and patent infringement claims, and it is especially noted for its command of issues around biosimilars, dosage patents and Japan’s evolving patent linkage framework. Despite its compact size, the firm has shown an ability to deliver standout results in market-shaping matters, including victories for Takeda, Shire, Bayer Healthcare and Regeneron in 2024 and 2025, giving it a profile well beyond that of a typical specialist boutique.
At the centre of the practice is Takanori Abe, a seasoned litigator dual-qualified in Japan and New York, who has become a go-to adviser for sophisticated pharmaceutical patent disputes. He is particularly well regarded for handling bet-the-company conflicts for leading global drug makers and for navigating technically and commercially sensitive cases at the intersection of patent enforcement and regulatory strategy. With a sharp focus on life sciences and an impressive recent run of wins, Abe continues to cement both his own standing and that of the firm in Japan’s contentious patent market. “Takanori is very experienced before the Japanese courts. He sees key importance in being prepared for any issue that may arise. He has excellent communication skills (including in English), extensive experience in patent matters, and tremendous acumen in dealing with multinational corporations. He is exceptionally smart and capable. His advice is invaluable.”

In IAM Patent 1000 2025, ABE & PARTNERS is highly evaluated as follows;
“Abe & Partners is a great, client-friendly and responsive firm with a very good work ethic. Even though they are not big, they get the work done. They tailor the advice to the client’s commercial goal, and work hard to understand the complex technology. Their English capability is excellent.” Abe & Partners is an Osaka-based general law practice with impressive IP capabilities. The outfit’s compact team has extensive technical expertise, excelling in fields such as pharmaceuticals, chemistry and technology. Dual qualified in Japan and New York, managing partner Takanori Abe is a seasoned litigator with ample international experience, which comes in handy when dealing with cross-border matters. He routinely represents some of the world’s leading companies - often in the life sciences - in complex courtroom battles where there is a lot at stake. “Takanori is a brilliant attorney and a powerhouse. He never gave up, although the case was extraordinarily difficult. His energy contributed a lot to the final settlement”, says a source connected to a recent, non-disclosable matter.