Key authorities, eminent lawyers and industry leaders discussed today in London the proposals put forward by the European Commission to stimulate jobs and growth in the pharmaceutical sector in Europe at the Medicines for Europe 13th Legal Affairs Conference. The high level participation at the event was crucial to advance discussions on key legal and IP topics impacting the generic, biosimilar and value added medicines industries.
This year’s conference addressed fundamental issues such as the consequences of the EU Health Council Conclusions of June 2016 calling for a review of pharmaceutical incentives, the impact of Brexit on the industry, antitrust developments, SPC case law, as well as interactive roundtables on the Unified Patent Court, orphan drugs, second medical use patents, clinical trial transparency, grace periods, the industry Code of Conduct, compulsory licenses, the Falsified Medicines Directive, EPO developments and data protection. The Commission proposal for an SPC manufacturing waiver for pharmaceutical production and R&D in Europe and to foster high-skill job creation and economic growth was discussed in depth.
“Today’s conference provides pathways to encourage competition, innovation and growth in the pharmaceutical sector. Patients, governments and healthcare systems rely on a strong generic, biosimilar and value added medicines industry to increase access to medicines and to create jobs for Europe”, commented Sergio Napolitano, Legal Affairs Director at Medicines for Europe, speaking ahead of the 13th Legal Affairs Conference, “an adapted legal environment that includes the SPC manufacturing waiver will boost investments in our sector and we stand ready to support job creation measures”.