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Trade

The economic recession fundamentally changed the environment in which the European Union’s commercial policy has to operate. Several EU countries are tempted to take protectionist measures to lower their vulnerability to the global market. Nevertheless, the EU as whole sees it as fundamental to continue to encourage openness and engagement instead of isolation and retreat. 

 

Because of this strategy, which is in line with the trio presidency policy, the World Trade Organisation (WTO) Doha rounds will remain the top priority for the Belgian presidency in the second half of the year. However, very few believe that an agreement will be reached soon. Therefore, the focus will also be to maintain bilateral negotiations with countries like Canada, China and India and regional entities like the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States. Some of the events to look forward to in this perspective are the 8th ASEM (Asian-European Meeting) and the EU-China Business Summit in the beginning of October. Despite the obstacles, a substantial agreement in the framework of the Doha will be the priority over bi-lateral agreements.

 

The EU Market Access Strategy will also remain high on the agenda. The Belgian presidency will support initiatives that enhance the export of goods and services from European companies, particularly small and medium enterprises to third countries, using all the available instruments. Concerted actions to remove non-tariff barriers, to open up government procurement markets and to increase protection for intellectual property rights will remain of particular importance.

 

Belgium can definitely count on good cooperation with EU Commissioner for Trade, Karel De Gucht - the former Belgian Minister of Foreign Affairs.

 

Key Belgian Priorities

  • Fight against protectionism by focusing on the Doha Round and bilateral and regional trade agreements.
  • Chair the discussions of the EU/ASEM Summit and the EU/Africa Summit.

Key Dates

  • Doha rounds: Conclusion foreseen in November 2010
  • 6th EU-China Business Summit, Brussels (5 October)
  • 8th ASEM, Brussels (4-5 October)