Intellectual property policy and the revision of the industrial designs system in the Union

Summary:

Set of conclusions adopted by the Council of the European Union 10 November 2020 setting out a number of key elements for a future EU intellectual property policy.

Further information:

The Council stresses the importance of a strong, efficient, transparent and balanced system of IP protection and the need for a coherent overall strategy to ensure both protection of - and fair access to - innovation. As regards the non-patentability of plant or animal products exclusively obtained by means of essentially biological processes, the Council welcomes the latest developments within the framework of the European Patent Organisation. The Council also recognises the need to strengthen Geographical Indications (GIs) protection systems in the European Union. It stands ready to consider a system of sui generis protection of non-agricultural products on the basis of a thorough impact assessment of its potential costs and benefits.

The Commission is encouraged to undertake a number of concrete actions in the fight against counterfeiting and piracy, including further involving online platforms and other hosting providers. It is also invited to table proposals for the revision of the legal framework on industrial design protection.

Official

Council of the European Union: Press Release, 10/11/2020: Future EU intellectual property policy: Council adopts conclusions https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2020/11/10/future-eu-intellectual-property-policy-council-adopts-conclusions/

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