The Commission has confirmed that the data protection framework of the European Patent Organization (EPO) has the necessary data safeguards so that innovators and public entities can now transfer data without extra hurdles to secure patents. This marks a further step for European competitiveness and innovation.
Executive Vice President for Tech Sovereignty, Security, and Democracy Henna Virkunnen said: “The confirmation of the European Patent Organisation’s data protection framework is a significant boost for companies, as it streamlines the patent application process by eliminating unnecessary hurdles and allowing for the seamless transfer of data. By reducing administrative burdens and speeding up procedures, this development will enable innovators and businesses to bring their ideas to market more quickly, driving growth, competitiveness, and job creation across Europe.”
Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law, and Consumer Protection Commissioner Michael McGrath (pictured) said: “Data protection can drive innovation. That’s why we’ve made the European Patent Organization our first international partner for free data flows from the EU. Today’s decision shows our commitment to protecting individuals while building a faster, simpler, and more competitive Europe.”
The functioning of the decision will be subject to periodic reviews. These checks will be carried out by the Commission together with European data protection authorities and, in this case, the European Patent Organisation.
More information on adequacy decisions can be found here: Adequacy Decisions.