The European Commission has decided to withdraw the proposed Standard-Essential Patent (SEP) Regulation. This move has prompted a response from Mike Sax, founder and chairperson of ACT | The App Association, which represents app developers and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the tech industry.
Sax expressed disappointment over the decision, stating, "The Commission’s requested withdrawal of the SEP Regulation is a missed opportunity to tackle the serious challenges SMEs face in securing fair licenses for standard-essential patents. Without these licenses, SMEs cannot build on standards, innovate, or grow their businesses."
He further noted that the European Parliament had supported and even strengthened the original proposal by the Commission. "Withdrawing it before a fair discussion in the Council is an unprecedented mistake undermining SMEs and their ability to innovate," Sax added.
According to Sax, withdrawing this regulation ignores not only the Council and Parliament but also thousands of EU SMEs dependent on fair licensing of SEPs for product development. He emphasized that supporting SMEs is crucial as they are key drivers of innovation within Europe.
"The App Association will keep advocating for our members as they develop transformative solutions across Europe. We remain committed to working with all stakeholders to tackle the challenges the Commission and Parliament have recognized," he concluded.
ACT | The App Association continues its mission as a global trade association supporting small and medium-sized technology companies by promoting policies that foster innovation while providing resources for capital raising, job creation, and technological advancement.
