Commission consults on intellectual property action plan

Major reforms could speed up protection and encompass novel design approaches

The European Commission is seeking feedback on slated reforms to EU intellectual property laws and policies, which would try to address evergreen problems such as low uptake and fragmentation.

The Intellectual Property Action Plan will aim to upgrade the EU’s IP system, promote “smart use” of IP, ensure better enforcement and promote a “global level playing field”, according to a briefing published as part of the consultation, which opened on 10 July and closes on 14 August.