Germany: International Law

Germany is modernizing its foreign direct investment screening regime to align with EU standards by 2028. The leaked draft of the new Investment Screening Act reveals a largely familiar framework with elevated statutory protections, but introduces notable changes for EFTA investors and listed company thresholds. Will the final legislation maintain this continuity or introduce more substantial reforms as parliamentary debate unfolds?

The EU Pharmaceutical Package represents the most significant reform of EU pharmaceutical law in over twenty years, but what does it mean for parallel imports of medicines? This analysis examines how the Package affects the regulatory framework for parallel trade, from repackaging requirements to shortage management and electronic package leaflets.

Germany's Alternative for Germany (AfD) party achieved a historic victory in Saxony-Anhalt regional elections, winning nearly 44% of the vote and dealing a severe blow to the ruling Christian Democratic Union. The election results are creating political instability that could weaken Berlin's leadership role in the European Union and reshape the bloc's approach to critical trade, industrial policy, and China relations during a pivotal period for European policymaking.

The Berlin Public Prosecutor's Office has launched an investigation into potential violations of EU sanctions against Russia in connection with the now-closed 'Russia House' cultural center in Berlin. Authorities are examining whether tenants or occupants of the facility may have breached the Foreign Trade and Payments Act through sanctions-related offenses.

Two brothers in Germany have been sentenced to prison terms exceeding three years each for illegally exporting engineering equipment and machinery to Russia. The convictions stem from 65 shipments worth €833,000 that were routed through Turkey and Kyrgyzstan, with the equipment ultimately used in weapons manufacturing.

Intellectual property in the defence sector operates under a unique regulatory framework where innovation must be balanced against national security concerns. How can companies effectively protect...