Over the years, EU company law has embraced digitalisation to enhance accessibility, efficiency, and cross-border operability. The Codified Company Law Directive (Directive (EU) 2017/1132) introduced key provisions, such as Article 16(6), which requires Member States to ensure that all company information submitted during the formation, registration, or ongoing operation of companies is stored in a machine-readable and searchable format. These measures aim to standardise how company data is accessed and exchanged, fostering transparency and usability.
Building on this foundation, the forthcoming Upgrading Digital Company Law (UDCL) Directive reinforces these requirements. It introduces digital-first tools such as the EU Company Certificate and the digital EU Power of Attorney, both designed to further harmonise company operations and enhance cross-border interoperability.
In this context, we are proud to announce that we have been awarded a new contract by the European Commission (DG JUST) to ‘Support the preparation of an implementing act on taxonomy for structured and machine-readable company data’. This project will play a pivotal role in advancing the digital transformation of company law across the EU.
In consortium with Tipik, Opsmorph, and with the cooperation of a network of national legal experts from across the EU, we will deliver a comprehensive analysis to achieve the study’s objectives. Together, we will:
- Identify and propose specific company data to be structured and machine-readable, enhancing its usability for stakeholders.
- Develop taxonomies that will underpin the EU’s drive for harmonised and interoperable company data standards.
- Assess current technical standards used by Member States and recommend future-proof technologies to ensure seamless implementation.
This project not only supports regulatory compliance but also lays the groundwork for an integrated, digital-first approach to EU company law. The results of this study will contribute to the development of implementing acts crucial for Member States, businesses, and other stakeholders in fostering transparency, interoperability, and efficiency in corporate operations across the EU.
We look forward to working with the European Commission, our partners, and the network of experts to deliver impactful results that drive meaningful change.
