Session 6 Flashcards
Under article 3 of the TFEU, what exclusive competence does the EU have?
Exclusive competence when it comes to customs union and the common commercial policy.
Who leads bilateral and multilateral commercial negotiation?
The commission, so at the World Trade Organisation all 27 member states speak with a single voice.
On which issues do Member states retain some power and independence?
FDI and intellectual property. This leads to mixed agreement, that is agreement that should be ratified by National Parliaments.
Give the articles and the direction that the European Common Commercial Policy is to take?
By virtue of articles 28 to 32, the European Common Commercial policy is to contribute to :
- progressive abolition of restrictions on international trade and on foreign direct investment
- lowering of customs and other barriers
What were the characteristics of the GATT era of EU trade strategy?
It was defined by a at-the-border strategy, so trade policy focused on tariffs, defending the CAP and bilateral agreements.
What were the characteristics of the 1st WTO era, from 199 to 2006?
It was focused on managed globalisation, that is proactive multilateralism to export acquis communautaire. Seeking to export norms and standards as a globaliser. There was a moratorium on bilateral and regional preferential trade agreements.
What were the characteristics of the 2nd WTO era from 206 to 2010?
A global Europe, it was a transition phase following the DOHA round. End of the moratorium to reopen the door of EU pursuit of its trade interests beyond the WTO. Bilateral back on the table.
What were the characteristics of the 3rd WTO era fro 2010 to 2015?
Competitiveness first, with the ambition to create region to region FTA such as Mercosur and ASEAN. But it usually was quicker to complete successful bilateral negotiation.
What were the characteristics of the 4th WTO era from 2015 to today?
Trade for All, that is still a bilateral strategy, and the focus on the idea of fair trade for all, which means that trade is also about core principles such as human rights and SD.
It’s associated with Environmental Goods Agreements and the promotion of CSR initiatives.
When was trade for all revised?
It was revised in 2017/18 in the context of Trump and China’s status within WTO. It hints at a potential protectionist turn, with a focus on Europeans, and on Trade Défense instruments. It adopted the CTEO in July 2020.
What is the Generalized Scheme of Preferences?
It is based on the WTO enabling clause, that enables developed countries to create trading preferences for developing countries.
What’s the difference between GSP and GSP+?
Standard GSP is for low and lower middle income countries, with reduced tariffs that cover 2/3 of the product line
GSP+ for vulnerable low and lower income countries that implement can treaties. Thy slash tariffs to 0.
What’s EBA?
Under the Generalized Scheme of Préférencee, it’s an Everything But Arms thing for least developed countries.
By what is the effectiveness of GSP reduced?
They are less and less effective because of lowering margin of preferences.
Plus safeguards.
Wha does the Cotonus agreement revision and 2010 reflect?
A shift towards EPAs (economic partnership agreements ) and reciprocity
