The new Design Directive and Regulation proposals have been published (here and here) and are open for comments until 23 January 2023.

The aim of the initiative is to update EU rules on design protection, in particular:

- modernise, clarify and strengthen design protection;
- make design protection more accessible and affordable across the EU;
- ensure EU and national rules governing design protection are more compatible;
- further align EU rules on design protection for repair spare parts.

ECTA has closely followed the reform and contributed to the previous consultations of the European Commission on the topic of industrial designs, as well as produced a number of position papers individually and together with other associations over the course of the past few years. Through its Design Committee, ECTA is already reviewing these proposals and preparing its comments.

All feedback received will be summarised by the European Commission and presented to the European Parliament and Council to feed the legislative debate.