EC spotlights rules on parallel imports of repackaged drugs

19 January 2004 17:20  [Source: ICIS news]

LONDON (CNI)--The European Commission (EC) said Monday that parallel importers of drugs in the European Union (EU) are allowed to repackage products and reaffix trademarks or replace them with market-specific versions.

The statement was issued by the EC in a bid to clarify rules on parallel imports within the EU. The Commission added, though, that the changes could only be done if the repackaging does not adversely affect the original condition of product or the reputation of the trademark and its owner. Further, the trademark owner has to be notified of the changes.

 

The Commission's guidance updates 1982 rules. It derives from a series of European Court of Justice (ECJ) rulings on parallel imports - goods taken for sale into one EU member state from another but which is outside the formal channels of a manufacturer or licensed distributor.

 

The full text of the Communication is available at: http://www.europa.eu.int/comm/internal_market/en/goods/art2830.htm

By: Russell Ong
+44 208 652 3214

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