Published: 2/1/17
Publication: Lexology
“Rewards for innovation through the existence and protection of intellectual property (IP) rights are crucial in today’s technology-based economy, which is highly dependent on R&D. Exclusive rights conferred by patent law can, however, create tensions with goals pursued by competition laws. Indeed, competition agencies across the globe are acutely interested in matters arising at the interface of IP and competition law.
Recent enforcement in the sphere of standard essential patents (SEPs) and pharmaceuticals, in particular, is significantly affecting the legal landscape for patent owners; it is clear that patentees must now, more routinely, consider how competition law may impact on the exercise of their patent rights. Developments in 2017 will test how far the law permits competition authorities to go in this respect.” – [READ MORE]