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Cutting of tariffs, simple rules of origin, reduction of NTB key criteria to assess FTAs, EBCA on just-style.com
Just-Style reports on the conclusion of the EU-Vietnam FTA, the potential impact on the textile and clothing industry. In a broader analysis of the European Commission’s multilateral and bilateral trade agenda, the author quotes EBCA: “… spokesman Benjamin Krieger tells just-style: ‘In the absence of a successful conclusion of the Doha Round, EBCA backs the EU’s strategy of negotiating bilateral agreements with key trading partners.’
When it comes to current and future FTAs, Krieger says: ‘Among the key criterion to assess most trade agreements is the cutting of tariffs, clear and simple-to-use rules of origin as well as a reduction of non-tariff barriers to trade. Contrary to other sectors, tariffs on textiles and footwear are still substantial even between developed economies such as the US and the EU. There is evidence that complex rules of origin hinder the use of preferential agreements.’”