New patent system favourable to SMEs

Today’s Council agreement on a unitary protection for patents and the translation system has been long awaited by small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) according to EUROCHAMBRES, the European association of Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

The new patent system will prove more efficient than the current patchwork of national regimes and will significantly increase access to patents for SMEs.  It will also ensure more comprehensive protection since it covers 25 EU member states.

"This is a key element in Europe's pursuit of a knowledge-based economy. Our SMEs file fewer patents than large firms and their success rate is significantly lower.  Today's Council agreement will reduce that disparity and help in particular new tech SMEs to protect their intellectual property and enhance their competitive edge," commented Arnaldo Abruzzini, Secretary General of EUROCHAMBRES.

EUROCHAMBRES congratulates the Council and the Parliament for reaching this compromise and hopes that the agreement on patent litigation will likewise enhance access to patent enforcement for small businesses.

EUROCHAMBRES - The Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry represents over 20 million enterprises in Europe - 93% of which are SMEs – through members in 45 countries and a European network of 2000 regional and local Chambers.