MARKET SHARE THRESHOLDS AND LEGAL CERTAINTY IN THE DRAFT REVISION OF THE EU TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER BLOCK EXEMPTION

Aleksandra Vasic; Ljubica Nikolić

doi:10.51738/kpolisa.2026.1r.avljn

Authors

Aleksandra Vasic State University of Novi Pazar, Department of Law Sciences, Novi Pazar, Serbia https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2228-6399
Ljubica Nikolić University of Niš, Faculty of Law, Niš, Serbia https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0475-4454

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51738/kpolisa.2026.1r.avljn

Keywords:

TTBER 2025, technology transfer, market share thresholds, block exemption, grace period, Article 101(3) TFEU

Abstract

In this paper, the authors analyze the proposed amendments contained in the draft new block exemption regulation on technology transfer agreements in comparison with the currently applicable Commission Regulation (EU) No 316/2014. Particular attention is devoted to the market share thresholds applicable to the contracting parties and to the extended transitional (“grace”) period.

The methodology is based on a critical analysis of the proposed normative solutions and a comparative assessment vis-à-vis the existing regulatory framework and the relevant doctrine in the field of technology transfer and EU competition law. The findings indicate that the retention of the nominal market share thresholds limits the practical scope of application of the block exemption and increases reliance on self-assessment under Article 101 TFEU. Conversely, the extension of the grace period enhances the stability of the exemption’s application in situations of temporary market fluctuations.

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