The European Commission published its Fifth Monitoring Report of Patent Settlements today. Patent settlements enable patent-related disputes to be resolved without having to litigate issues such as patent validity or patent infringement. The Commission takes the view that patent settlements can infringe competition law when they prompt generic suppliers to delay entry in return for
European Commission Consults On Revised Competition Regime For Technology Transfer Agreements
Originally published as Covington E-Alert on February 26, 2013
On 20 February 2013, the European Commission published for consultation its proposal for revisions to the EU technology transfer competition regime. The consultation period runs until 17 May 2013. The new regime will be adopted before April 2014. The EU’s approach to the application of competition
Key Considerations for European M&A in the Life Sciences Sector
Article originally published in PLC Life Sciences Handbook 2012
M&A in the life sciences sector has remained robust, driven by factors such as:
- The need to replenish shrinking product pipelines.
- The need to maintain revenues as patents on top-selling
- products expire.
- The strategic diversification of business lines.
- Expansion into emerging markets.
European Commission Revises Distribution Rules
Originally published as Covington E-Alert on April 27, 2010
On 20 April 2010, the European Commission published new rules governing so-called “vertical” agreements, such as distribution and supply agreements. The new rules are set out in the Vertical Restraints Block Exemption Regulation and the related Guidelines (see DG Competition’s website). They will become effective as