In its communication to the Council and the European Economic and Social Committee of the European Parliament, the European Commission proposed an initiative entitled “Towards a renewed consensus on the enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights: An EU Action Plan” [COM(2014)392, 1.7.2014. See in particular action 9].

Through this consultation the DG Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises is aiming to gather evidence, opinions and feedback regarding the respect of intellectual property rights and trade secrets in public procurement procedures. The consultation will also seek to gather information on whether or not there is a need for specific guidance on this issue.

The target groups for this consultation include public authorities carrying out public procurement; suppliers of goods and services to public authorities; small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs); trade associations; providers of professional services (e.g. legal, audit, architectural); medical sector professionals; employees and trade unions; civil society organisations; and the general public.

The closing date of the consultation is 7th July 2015.

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