Regulatory sandboxes and experimentation clauses as tools for an innovation-friendly, future-proof and resilient regulatory framework that masters disruptive challenges in the digital age

Summary:

Set of conclusions adopted by the Council of the European Union on 16 November 2020 concerning the role of regulatory sandboxes and experimentation clauses in an innovation-friendly, future-proof, sustainable and resilient EU regulatory framework.

Further information:

Regulatory sandboxes are defined as frameworks which, by providing a structured context for experimentation, enable where appropriate in a real-world environment the testing of innovative technologies, products, services or approaches for a limited time and in a limited part of a sector or area under regulatory supervision ensuring that appropriate safeguards are in place.

The Council affirms that these sandboxes can offer significant opportunities particularly to innovate and grow for all businesses. It encourages the European Commission to continue considering the use of experimentation clauses on a case-by-case basis when drafting and reviewing legislation, as well as to evaluate the use of experimentation clauses in ex-post evaluations and fitness checks on the basis of an exchange of information with member states.

Official

Council of the European Union: Press Release, 16/11/2020: Regulatory sandboxes and experimentation clauses as tools for better regulation: Council adopts conclusions https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2020/11/16/regulatory-sandboxes-and-experimentation-clauses-as-tools-for-better-regulation-council-adopts-conclusions/

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