European medical technology association Eucomed and the European Diagnostic Manufacturers Association (EDMA) are forming a single industry trade federation to more effectively lobby on behalf of their medical device and IVD manufacturing members.

The associations will name a joint chief executive to oversee activities and develop organizational strategies; however, Eucomed and EDMA will continue to operate as separate legal entities. Furthermore, the new joint federation is open to membership for other European industry trade groups, as well.

A top priority in the short term for the federation will be cooperating with EU policymakers hammering out a new regulatory framework for medical devices.