EU industry ministers approved on Monday the creation of a single patent system across most of Europe - a scheme some 40 years in the making. "It's a historic decision that will stimulate innovation and growth," said European Union Markets Commissioner Michel Barnier during ministerial talks that were partially broadcast live.
The European Parliament is expected to give its assent on Tuesday, which would remove another hurdle towards a simpler, cheaper and more effective system to manage 60,000 patent applications a year across the 27-member EU. The new system should be in place by 2014, with the cost of filing patent applications falling progressively from around 30,000 euros ($39,000) to 5,000 euros, the EU executive has said. The minister's green light was secured on an "enhanced cooperation" basis, a procedure that allows a coalition of willing countries to proceed without those which are opposed.
Spain and Italy objected to a provision that the new patents would be in three languages only - English, French and German. Madrid and Rome have challenged the plan in the European Court of Justice and on Tuesday its top official is also due to give a legal opinion on their complaint.
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