Abstract:The third revision of patent law stipulated the confidential examination for international patent applications to better regulate major inventions under multiple subjects and safeguard national security. However, there are some problems in the process of implementation, such as low efficiency, lack of compensation measures and the worsening environment for scientific research, which have deviated from the original designed functions of confidential examination and affected the introduction and development of advanced technologies. To balance national security, technology innovation and reasonable interests of international patent applicants, China’s patent office should draw on the practical experience of foreign countries, simplify the procedure, establish fast-track and provide relief ways to make the confidential examination play a positive role in technological innovation.