As life sciences organizations adapt to evolving regulations and technologies, compliance in meetings and events continues to be a dynamic space.
Based on recent industry developments and client feedback, here are seven key updates shaping the compliance landscape in 2025:
- EFPIA code takes center stage
With the EFPIA (European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations) now leading regulatory guidance in Europe, recent responses to the EU-US trade deal highlight growing concerns over tariffs and their impact on pharmaceutical innovation and patient access.
EFPIA represents the pharmaceutical industry operating in Europe and sets standards for ethical interactions, transparency, and compliance across member companies. The focus is shifting toward valuing innovation and creating environments that accelerate scientific breakthroughs.
- Modernizing the EU regulatory ecosystem
Life sciences companies are increasingly adopting integrated, end-to-end meeting management platforms to eliminate manual data entry and reduce compliance risk. Simpler systems are now essential to ensure accuracy and efficiency across regulatory touchpoints.
- Meals & incidentals: Still permitted, more controlled
While modest meals and incidentals remain allowed, they are now subject to tighter caps and real-time tracking. Pre-approval processes and full reporting under EFPIA and local codes are becoming standard practice.
- AI for regulatory compliance
Artificial intelligence is transforming compliance operations. From tracking regulatory changes and generating documentation to monitoring medicine safety, AI tools are helping teams stay ahead of complex requirements.
- Legal landscape: GDPR & AI rules
GDPR enforcement remains a top priority, especially with the rise of AI in healthcare. New regulations around patient data use and algorithmic transparency are emerging, requiring organizations to reassess their data governance strategies.
- Transfer of Value (ToV) reporting evolves
ToV reporting continues to expand, with more healthcare professionals falling under disclosure requirements. Companies are preparing for broader definitions and investing in better data capture tools to ensure accuracy and compliance.
- Real-time auditing with live dashboards
Auditing is no longer a retrospective task. Live compliance dashboards now allow organizations to monitor risk in real time, flagging potential issues before they escalate. This proactive approach is becoming a best practice across the industry.
Originally published July 21, 2022. Updated August 28, 2025.
