EU plans to liberalise spare parts market under heavy fire

Publication date: 08 September 2004

Commissioner Bolkestein's plan to revise the Design Directive 98/71/EC faces new delays. The proposal which seeks to include a 'repair clause'  to ensure the right of independent spare parts producers and distributors to operate in the market alongside car manufacturers in the 25 EU countries, is facing strong opposition from manufacturers and some Commissioners.

The college of commissioners was expected to reach a decision today. But this item will only be dealt with on 14 September, following a request from the future Enterprise Commissioner Günter Verheugen, who wants to postpone this proposal to allow more time to further enquiries on the impact on the EU's industry and job market.

Background:
In the EU, the design of cars is protected by a design directive giving the holder of the designs certain rights. The Commission is reviewing this directive to open a market for collision repair parts. In most EU member states - including France and Germany, 'visible' car parts (like body panels, glass, bumpers, light) are protected by national design and copyright laws and can only be sold by the car manufacturers.

Related News Item:
“Repair Clause” amendment in Design Directive postponed (25.6.2004)