EU-South Korea Trade Pact Will Increase Access to Drugs

The European Council gave the green light to a fair trade agreement (FTA) with South Korea that includes specific provisions aimed at reducing regulatory red tape in the area of drugs and medical devices. The FTA was signed at the EU-South Korea summit in Brussels earlier this month. The document also needs to be ratified by the 27 member states. Under the agreement, the EU, its member states and South Korea will recognize international standards and guidelines and accept conformity assessments conducted in accord with good laboratory practice and good manufacturing practice.
International Pharmaceutical Regulatory Monitor