The Development -

..The European Commission (EC) has published a 232-page Staff Working Document that summarises the findings of its evaluation of the EU Vertical Block Exemption Regulation (VBER) and accompanying Vertical Guidelines to confirm whether they are still fit for purpose.

..This Staff Working Document is an important milestone in the EC’s current review, closing the evaluation phase and launching a new phase in which concrete proposals for revision will be put forward. Whilst not radical, the changes are likely to be important and focus mainly on reflecting the digital economy.

..Within the next weeks, the EC will launch an impact assessment to look into the policy options for a revision of the rules in order to address the issues identified during the evaluation. Stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide their views.

..In 2021, the EC will issue a draft of the revised rules for public consultation. The EC intends for the new rules to be in force by 31 May 2022.