Press Release: Freedom of establishment for pharmacies: infringement proceedings against Germany and Portugal

The European Commission took action to put an end to obstacles to the freedom of establishment in Germany and Portugal, by formally requesting these two Member States to modify their legislation on the ownership of pharmacies. These requests took the form of 'reasoned opinions', the second stage of the infringement procedure under Article 226 of the EC Treaty. If there is no satisfactory reply within two months, the Commission may refer the matter to the European Court of Justice.