The EU will publish proposals to modernise the bloc’s design regulations after the summer break “at the latest”, said the Czech Republic’s ambassador to Spain during his opening address at the IP Case Law Conference today, July 7.
Attended live by Managing IP, the two-day conference is being held at the headquarters of the EUIPO Boards of Appeal in Alicante, Spain, and covers a range of topics, including EU General Court litigation and sustainability and trademarks.
Ambassador Ivan Jančárek, who is based in Madrid and joined via a livestream, revealed the Czech Republic’s two main priorities during the country’s presidency of the European Council. The post began on July 1, just six days ago, and ends on December 31 2022.
The first goal is to implement a new system for non-agricultural geographical indications, Jančárek said. The European Commission announced the project in April, in what will be a first for craft and industrial products.
Jančárek said GIs are often important for local identity, job creation and competitiveness, and that an effective and transparent system will promote recognition of EU GIs worldwide.
He then told the audience that the “time has come” to modernise the EU’s design regulations and improve the availability of protection amid the transition to a digital and green economy.
“Design systems work well but there is room for improvement,” he said, announcing that the proposal will be published by the end of the summer, if not before.
“I hope we will be up to the task,” he added.
Jančárek’s address followed welcoming remarks from João Negrão, president of the Boards of Appeal, and Christian Archambeau, the EUIPO’s executive director.
Managing IP will be interviewing Archambeau in person tomorrow, July 8, and bringing more live coverage from the event.
