EFPIA presses for sharper EU drug law overhaul to secure global edge

Europe’s pharmaceutical lobby has welcomed the European Commission’s plans to revise the General Pharmaceutical Legislation (GPL), but said draft measures fall short of creating a world-class system.

The European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA) described the review as a rare opportunity to modernize regulation, protect patients, and reinforce Europe’s place in global health innovation.

The federation pointed to promising steps such as regulatory sandboxes and faster assessments, which could improve agility and support for innovation. But it warned that rigid rules on evidence, added complexity for combination products, and limits on marketing authorisation holders in labeling could undermine competitiveness if not corrected.