We support the European Commission’s focus on regulatory simplification and in particular its decision to withdraw the proposal to regulate standard-essential patents (SEPs) from its Work Programme.

The SEPs proposal could have a negative impact on European innovation, investment and competitiveness. The announcement to withdraw the SEPs proposal is fully coherent with the Competitiveness Compass unveiled in January and will contribute to reducing regulatory red tape.

Numerous stakeholders, including intellectual property experts, academics, economists and government officials, have publicly voiced their concerns about the SEPs proposal. 

Withdrawal of the SEPs proposal clears the way for a more evidence-based discussion on how to support the European innovation ecosystem and all its stakeholders, including SMEs. 

We look forward to continuing our dialogue with EU decision-makers. We stand for a strong Europe that recognises the crucial roles of patents and open standards. Both are key drivers of Europe’s growth, security, sovereignty and technological leadership.