On July 5, Directive (EU) 2016/943 took effect, providing for common measures against the unlawful acquisition, use, and disclosure of trade secrets. The new instrument protects companies against industrial and economic espionage without undermining fundamental rights and freedoms of the public interest, such as public safety, consumer protection, public health, environmental protection, and mobility of workers. Member States have two years to transpose the Directive into their national laws.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.