EC Publishes: New Harmonised EU Patent Rules to Foster Innovation

In today's economy, intangible assets like trademarks, designs, patents, and data are becoming more and more crucial and intellectual property (IP) is a key driver for economic growth as it enables businesses to gain value from their intangible assets.

The European Commission (EC) has recently proposed new regulations to strengthen the protection of IP in Europe. With these new regulations on standard essential patents, compulsory licensing of patents in crisis situations, and the revision of the legislation on supplementary protection certificates, the Commission intends to create a more transparent, effective, and future proof IP framework. The new proposals are also intended to complement the Unitary Patent system, which will be operational as of 1 June. With the help of this strong patent framework, entrepreneurs and responsible authorities would be better able to safeguard innovation while ensuring equal access, even in emergency situations.

Prior to approval and implementation, the proposed Regulations still need to be examined and approved by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union.