EU’s external trade contributes with around 1 pct. of the growth in EU GDP. Thus, it is one of the main reasons the EU has a positive GDP development. And there is potential for more. From 2015, 90 pct. of the global economic growth is expected to take place outside of the EU.
Minister for Trade and Investment Pia Olsen Dyhr says:
“Our discussions today confirmed a common understanding of the importance of trade policy for the EU’s growth agenda. We must be become much better to take advantage of the possibilities of a closer trade with the new growth markets. It is crucial in order to create new growth and employment in the EU.”
At today’s meeting, ministers discussed state of play of the preparations for free trade negotiations between the EU and Japan, which was initiated during summer 2011.
Pia Olsen Dyhr elaborates:
“I am very happy to be able to say that there is now agreement to close the preparations and move on to the actual negotiations of a free trade agreement with Japan. There is a huge potential in an agreement, and we have a very well-prepared basis for the further negotiations.”
At the meeting there was agreement that the preparations for FTA negotiations between the EU and Japan have made good progress. Now, the Commission must present a mandate for approval in the Council.
At today’s meeting ministers also discussed the next steps towards more free trade in green goods and services.
Pia Olsen Dyhr states:
“I am very satisfied that we have agreed on the basis of a good paper from the European Commission to intensify the EU’s efforts for more green trade. It is going to be implemented i.e. through a more focused integration of green clauses in the EU’s free trade agreements and by continuing our deliberations on how to revive the international discussions about green trade liberalisation. The strengthening of the EU’s work on green trade liberalisation is an important first step that is going to make it easier for companies to export their green goods and at the same time contribute to the fight against climate changes.”