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Trade Policy Review Body    
 
* In Original language only/ En langue  originale seulement /En el idioma original solamente . 
  EUROPEAN UNION 
DRAFT MINUTES  OF THE MEETING* HELD ON 5 AND 7 JULY 2017  
Delegations are invited to submit factual corrections, if any, on their own statement to the 
Secretariat ( Mrs Barbara Blanquart: barbara. blanquart@wto.org , or to  tprd@wto.org ) no later 
than 6 September 2017 . 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
 
UNION EUROPÉENNE  
PROJET DE COMPTE REN DU DE LA RÉUNION* TENUE LES 5 ET 7 JUILLET 2017  
Les délégations s ont invitées à soumettre  leurs éventuelles corrections factuelles concernant leurs 
propres déclarations au Secrétariat ( Mme Barbara Blanquart: barbara.blanquart@wto.org , ou 
tprd@wto.org ) le 6 septembre 2017  au plus tard.  
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
 
UNIÓN EUROPEA  
PROYECTO DE ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN* CELEBRADA LOS DÍAS 5 Y 7 DE JULIO DE 2017  
Las delegaciones pueden enviar a la Secretaría (Sr a. Barbara Blanquart : 
barbara.blanquart@wto.org , o tprd@wto.org ) a más tardar el 6 de septiembre de 2017  las 
correcciones fácticas que deseen introducir en sus propias declaraciones.  
 
 
______ _________  
 WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
EUROPEAN UNION 
DRAFT  MINUTES OF THE MEETI NG 
Chairperson: H.E. Mr Juan Carlos Gonzalez (Colombia)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  3 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE O F THE EUROPEAN UNION  ...............  5 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ..............  11 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBER S ................................ ................................ ........................  16 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF THE EUR OPEAN UNION AND 
ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  ................................ ................................ ...............................  75 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  91 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies 
provided by the European Union are reproduced in document WT/TPR /M/357/Add.1 and will be 
available online at http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The 13th Trade Policy Review of the European Union was held on 5 and 7 July 2017. The 
Chairperson, H.E.  Mr. Juan C arlos Gonzalez (Colombia) welcomed the delegation of the European 
Union headed by Deputy Director -General Joost Korte, Directorate -General for Trade,  European 
Commission; the rest of the delegation; and the discussant, Ambassador Roberto Zapata Barradas 
(Mexico).  
1.2.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of the Trade Policy Reviews and the main elements of 
the procedures for the meeting. The report by the European Union was contained in document 
WT/TPR/G/357 and that of the WTO Secretariat in WT/TPR/S/357.  
1.3.  Questions by the following delegations had been submitted in writing before the deadline: 
Colombia; Singapore; Republic of Korea; China; Switzerland; United States; Ukraine; Argentina: 
Brazil; Indonesia; Norway; Mexico; Australia; Republic of Moldova; Russian Federation; Hong 
Kong, China; Kazakhstan; Chile; Viet Nam; Dominican Republic; Canada; Costa Rica; India; 
Chinese Taipei; and Peru. The following delegations submitted written questions after the 
deadline: Ecuador; Japan; El Salvador; Trinidad and Tobago; Iceland; Guatemala; New Zealand; 
Malaysia; Thailand; Turkey; Montenegro; and Israel.  
1.4.  In 2015, Members had recognized the importance of the EU to the world economy, to world 
trade, and to the multilateral trading system. The low rate of growth in the EU as a whole and 
continued weakness in some Member States had been a concern for the wider WTO membership, 
particularly because the EU had been, and still was, the first or second biggest trading partner for 
most WTO Members. Therefore, economic and policy deve lopments in the EU affected other 
countries.  
1.5.  Unfortunately, since 2015, economic growth had remained weak and had varied significantly 
from one Member State to another.  
1.6.  As noted at the last TPR, the trade and investment regime was generally open and 
transparent with common rules and procedures applying throughout the EU. Furthermore, 
technical requirements and SPS measures were, to a large extent harmonized. Although some 
countries found the EU's rules and requirements excessively strict, Members recognize d that 
harmonization had the benefit of creating a common system where compliance gave access to a 
market of over 500 million people. Furthermore, the process of harmonization had continued and 
there had been some significant changes intended to simplify a nd streamline customs 
administration and make it easier to do business.  
1.7.  Along with the EU's consistent emphasis on the importance of the WTO, it had also developed 
a comprehensive network of bilateral trade agreements as well as offering non -reciprocal 
preferences through the Everything -but-Arms, GPS, GSP, and GSP plus systems. The EU's bilateral 
agreements tended to cover much more than just tariff concessions, as had that year's 
Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement with Canada. While noting the EU p osition that 
bilateral trade agreements could complement the multilateral system, during the last Review there 
had been concerns about the complexity this brought to world trade as well as possible distortions 
it could cause to trade and investment.  
1.8.  Govern ment procurement, which was the equivalent of over 13% of GDP in the EU, had also 
been a concern raised by some delegations in the last TPR about access for enterprises outside the 
EU, particularly small and medium sized enterprises. Several important chan ges had come into 
effect over the previous two years which were intended to improve transparency and access. 
However, detailed EU rules only applied above thresholds and Members welcomed further 
information about procurement below these thresholds.  
1.9.  While t he EU might be generally open to trade and investment, agriculture still stood out as 
being subsidized and protected. At the time of the last review, the average tariff on agricultural 
goods had been more than three times the average rate for other product s and total support for 
agriculture had been estimated to be ne arly €100 billion. Furthermore, although the Common 
Agricultural Policy had been substantially reformed in 2013/14, the changes had not directly WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  affected market access which remained difficult for many countries due to high and complex tariffs 
and many tar iff quotas, sometimes with complicated allocation and administration systems.  
1.10.  The last TPR had also noted that the EU had been one of the biggest users of anti -dumping 
and countervailing measures in the WTO and this situation had not appeared to have chang ed over 
the previous two years. In addition, while harmonized technical requirements and SPS measures 
might simplify trade there had been concerns about their development, adoption and application 
and that in some cases they were not scientifically justifi ed. From the advanced written questions 
for this meeting, it appeared that Members continued to have questions and sought clarifications 
on these matters as well as on IP related issues.  
1.11.  For services, which remained the biggest part of GDP, Members were al so concerned about 
how the EU was addressing regulation of financial services as well as regulations on e -commerce, 
including audio -visual services.  
1.12.  As a critical player in world trade, all delegations were interested in hearing about how the 
EU was dealin g with current issues including overall low economic growth, differences in 
performance among member States, EU action on climate change, migration flows, and, of course, 
Brexit.  
1.13.  The meeting might not provide answers to all questions Members had raised, bu t the 
Chairperson hoped it would give Members an opportunity to reflect more deeply on issues of 
interest and relevance to the multilateral trading system. The Chairperson looked forward to an 
active and fruitful exchange.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESE NTATIVE OF THE EUROP EAN UNION (DEPUTY 
DIRECTOR -GENERAL JOOST KORTE)  
2.1.  It is an honour for me to lead the EU delegation for its 13th Trade Policy Review. On behalf of 
the EU, I would like to thank Ambassador Roberto Zapata Barradas of Mexico who volunteered t o 
be the Discussant for our TPR and the Chair of this meeting, Ambassador Juan Carlos Gonzalez, of 
Colombia for his introductory words. I would also like to pay tribute to the team of the WTO 
Secretariat, led by John Finn, for their commitment and dedicati on to produce quality reports and 
for the excellent cooperation that we had.  
2.2.  My statement today will be quite lengthy. This is because the European Union treats these 
TPR exercises extremely seriously. I would like to use this opportunity to respond up fro nt to many 
of the questions and concerns that have been raised during the written part of the process.  
2.3.  The EU's TPR provides an excellent opportunity for a frank exchange about the EU's trade 
policy. It, however, also provides an opportunity for us to pre sent a few reflections regarding 
global trade over the last two years and the functioning of the WTO as they are intimately linked 
with EU trade policy.  
2.4.  The EU remains a firm believer in the multilateral trading system and in the principles that 
this Organ ization represents. This was most recently showcased by the EU's Heads of State and 
Government, who concluded the meeting of the European Council on 22 -23 June by saying: "The 
EU will pursue a robust trade policy upholding an open and rules -based multilate ral trading 
system, with a central role for the WTO". The same conclusions also state that "the EU will keep 
markets open and fight protectionism".  
2.5.  Our dedication and support for the multilateral system has been thus confirmed at the 
highest level and held  steadfast over the years and has remained a core pillar of our trade policy. 
Developments in the WTO have both influenced and been influenced by the EU.  
2.6.  Before moving on to addressing some of the key questions Members raised over the last few 
weeks, let m e start by saying a few words about broader developments in the EU since the last 
TPR in 2015.  
2.7.  The economic situation in the EU has improved markedly since our last meeting as shown in 
the Secretariat and our Government reports. The Euro crisis is now beh ind us. The EU is continuing 
our efforts to consolidate the European Monetary Union. We have continued on our path towards 
recovery which was facilitated by a number of factors, including low oil prices. GDP growth in the 
EU as a whole is expected to remai n constant at 1.9% this year and in 2018. We have also seen 
important improvements in our labour market with the unemployment rate falling to 7.8% in 
May 2017. There are, however, important differences in unemployment levels of EU Member 
States, as mention ed by the Chair. We have created over 10 million jobs since 2013.  
2.8.  In order to improve our response to structural problems, the European Semester (which is an 
annual cycle of coordination and surveillance of the EU's economic policies) has been 
strengthened ; we have enhanced the coordination of the EU Members' economic policies at EU 
level. The top priority is to boost jobs and growth and to address the social dimension of the 
European Union.  
2.9.  The deepening of the single market and the achievement of the dig ital single market are top 
priorities. A deep and integrated EU single market is not just good for the EU and our Member 
States; it provides tremendous benefits to third countries, to our trading partners. Our efforts to 
operate as much as possible as an i ntegrated economic entity have all been well recognised 
throughout the previous TPRs. While perhaps not always perfect, these measures provide our 
trading partners with access to a single market of over 500 million consumers in which goods can 
circulate fr eely.  
2.10.  Research and innovation are fundamental ingredients to ensuring that EU companies remain 
competitive and respond to consumers' needs. The EU is responsible for about a quarter of global 
expenditure on research and one third of global patents. Since launching the very first Europe wide 
framework programme for research, the European Union has invested nearly €200 billion towards WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  funding research technologies and products that improve our lives. Of course this goes hand in 
hand with IPR protection and w e got many detailed and technical questions on these issues.  
2.11.  Certain important political developments have also occurred since July 2015. Many 
questions were asked over the last few weeks regarding the UK's referendum on leaving the EU. 
There have been so me developments in this area: on 29 March 2017, the UK Government formally 
notified the European Council of its intention to withdraw from the EU. On 29 April 2017, the 
European Council adopted guidelines for negotiations. Negotiations have now started and  the first 
round was held in the week of 19 June. Nevertheless, until its withdrawal, the UK remains a 
Member State of the European Union with all rights and obligations of a Member State.  
2.12.  Let me now turn to the questions.  
2.13.  A very broad range of issues was raised in the 1053 written questions we received from 
38 Members as preparation for today. We have replied on 28 June in writing to all the questions 
sent to us by the deadline of 7 June (849 questions). These written replies were made available to 
you by the WTO Secretariat in the document RD/TPR/806. We will reply to the rest by end of 
August but I can already mention that many of the other questions are similar to the questions we 
already replied to in writing.  
2.14.  Let me now go into the main themes raised by Members. For the sake of clarity the 
questions can be summarised in 10 blocks:  
2.15.  First, regarding agriculture, the EU has a strong track record on reform of its Common 
Agricultural Policy (CAP). EU use of export subsidies stopped in July 2013 and EU leade rship was 
key in reaching the MC10 outcome on export competition. EU domestic support notification show 
the major shift away from trade distorting Amber Box measures and most EU spending is now 
non-trade distorting Green Box. We regret to say that only a f ew Members have followed in our 
footsteps to date.  
2.16.  Similar reforms have been undertaken with regard to our Common Fisheries Policy, which is 
geared toward ensuring greater sustainability and science based management of resources. Our 
positive track record in this area is mirrored in our efforts to lead this organisation toward a 
positive outcome on fisheries subsidies at the next Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires, MC11.  
2.17.  Secondly, regarding the EU's bilateral trade deals, we received many questions in particular 
on the recent rulings of the European Court of Justice on EU competences with regards to trade 
and investment. You have certainly noted in our replies that the Court determined the following 
areas that are under the Union's exclusive competence:  trade in goods and services; protection of 
foreign direct investment; IPR; public procurement; competition; trade and sustainable 
development; transparency; State -to-State Dispute Settlement when applied to these areas. The 
opinion of the court gave in th e case of the free trade area that we negotiated with Singapore is 
indeed a land mark judgement that will lead us into clarifying the distribution of competence 
between the Member States and the EU.  
2.18.  Thirdly, many questions have also been raised regarding t rade defence. Trade defence is a 
legitimate and WTO compliant way of protecting ourselves against unfair trade practices. In a 
world where a level playing field is a distant dream, where dumping is more common that we 
would like, and where massive amount o f subsidies are threatening the competitiveness of our 
businesses and leading to overcapacity, trade defence will remain an integral and necessary part 
of our trade policy. I am happy to answer further questions on this issue and our modernization 
efforts while underlining the basic truth: such tools will remain in place and will continue to be 
used until others reign in their policies.  
2.19.  Fourth, regarding FDI, as was the case during the last TPRs, the division of the roles 
between the EU and the Member State s in the management of investment treaties has been an 
issue on which you have asked many clarifications. We hope that our answers provided the 
necessary clarifications. I would just like to recall that foreign direct investment policy is now an 
integral p art of the common commercial policy, which remains an exclusive competence of the EU 
and has been now confirmed by ECJ. Therefore, new investment negotiations with third countries 
can only be carried out at the EU level. The existing BITs between EU Member  States and third WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  countries will be preserved until they are replaced by EU agreements. In this respect, EU law 
grants legal security to existing BITs between the EU Member States and third countries until they 
are replaced by EU -wide investment agreements . Under certain conditions, the EU Member States 
may negotiate or re -negotiate existing bilateral investment agreements. However, EU law does not 
provide for the co -existence of Member States and Union investment agreements with the same 
third country and Member States' agreements will cease to apply when the EU agreement with the 
same countries enters into force.  
2.20.  Fifthly, many of you requested clarifications on the Investment Court System which is part 
of the EU's reformed approach to investment protection . It is proposed as a reformed mechanism 
for investment dispute settlement in all negotiations which include investment protection rules. 
However, we consider that the better approach in the medium term is the establishment of a 
proper multilateral investm ent court. This will require building consensus and we, together with 
Canada, have kicked off discussions on that project with a view to having a broad and inclusive 
process. The multilateral court would need to be a legal entity under international law bu t it is too 
early today to say whether it would be a new stand -alone body, or be docked into an existing 
international organisation. We will work with all interested parties to identify the best way forward.  
2.21.  Sixth, the EU has noted the continued interest o f Members in its sanitary and phytosanitary 
measures. I would like to start by pointing out that in the European Union SPS measures are to a 
very large extent harmonized at EU level. Consistency of implementation of these measures is 
overseen and audited b y the European Commission. Only very few areas remain non -harmonized 
which relate to less commonly consumed or traded commodities. In these areas, Member States 
have the possibility to adopt national provisions in conformity with the provisions of the Trea ty on 
the Functioning of the European Union and in compliance with WTO obligations.  
2.22.  Seventh, on TBT, we have received some comments regarding our stakeholder consultation 
processes when developing regulatory measures. Let me just say that we are convinced that the 
EU's legislative process is highly transparent. It gives today numerous possibilities for stakeholder 
to express their positions which is sadly not the case yet in some WTO Members.   
2.23.  Eight, we have also been asked questions as to what the EU will  do now that the  States has 
indicated its wish to withdraw from the Paris Climate Convention. The EU's Foreign Affairs Council 
bringing together our foreign ministers clearly set out the EU's position at its meeting on 19 June: 
"The Council deeply regrets  the unilateral decision by the United States Administration to withdraw 
from the Paris Agreement (…). The Paris Agreement brought us together in very challenging times. 
It demonstrates, along with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, our collectiv e 
responsibility towards the entire planet, for this and future generations, and our commitment to 
act accordingly (…).The Council reaffirms that the Paris Agreement is fit for purpose and cannot be 
renegotiated (…). The European Union and its Member State s remain united and absolutely 
committed to full and swift implementation of the Paris Agreement (…)." Regarding the 
implications in the WTO, it means that we will continue to play our role and develop actions that 
promote sustainable trade and the impleme ntation of the UN goals in that respect. In this spirit, 
we will continue to seek progress regarding Environmental Goods Agreement negotiations. Let me 
add that between 2010 and 2015 the EU invested more in developing renewables than any other 
energy.  
2.24.  Nine, with regard to sustainability, this remains a top priority for EU trade policy. The EU 
will continue to reinforce its agenda to promote sustainable development, human rights and good 
governance, in the spirit of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Devel opment. Our attention to 
environmental and climate priorities, the support we provide via the EU's GSP scheme, and our 
continued focus on values have been core elements of our trade policy. And they will continue to 
be in the future.  
2.25.  In this light, we att ach great importance to the issue of gender equality and women's 
empowerment. Just a few days ago, the EU's Commissioner for Trade – Ms Cecilia Malmström, 
hosted an important international conference on women and trade with the participation of 
Roberto Aze vêdo as well as a number of other important panellists. This discussion will be 
continued at next week's Aid for Trade Global Review.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  2.26.  Finally, ten, more broadly regarding development aid, the EU remains the biggest provider 
of financial and technical assis tance. The EU last June reached a new consensus on aid as part of 
its response to the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development 
Goals. Poverty eradication remains the primary objective of development policy under the new 
Consens us. However, it integrates the economic, social and environmental dimensions of 
sustainable development and underlines the links between development and other policies, notably 
trade.  
2.27.  And more specifically on aid for trade, which will be in the spotlight n ext week during the 
Global Review, I will say that the EU remains the first donor as was correctly detailed in the WTO 
Secretariat report. The EU contributed around €13.16 billion (2015 figures) to projects in 
developing countries. In line with priorities set by the partner countries, trade facilitation and in 
particular supporting the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement will be a priority in 
coming years. Over the period 2016 to 2018, in addition to significant support provided by EU 
Member States, the European Commission expects to commit another half a billion to trade 
facilitation alone.  
2.28.  This brings me to the end of the initial reactions to the most frequently asked questions. We 
are obviously ready to elaborate further on these questions  on Friday in the light of today's 
statements.  
2.29.  To conclude my statement, some reflections on trade in general and on the WTO. 
Unfortunately, the period since our last TPR has shown that all is not well in the multilateral 
system. A serious and concerted ef fort is needed to strengthen it. We are concerned that there is a 
growing disconnect between the principles underpinning the system – which the EU is strongly 
supporting - and reality, between theory and practice, and between what this organisation does 
(as a Member driven organisation) and what it should actually be doing.  
2.30.  The practical reality of the problems EU traders face were set out in quite some detail in the 
7th Trade and Investment Barriers Report published by the European Commission a few days ag o. 
The report noted a 10% increase in 2016 of recorded trade and investment barriers bringing the 
total up to 372. The trade barriers potentially af fected EU exports worth up to €27.17 billion which 
corresponds to 1.6% of all EU exports globally. These trends were confirmed in the recent WTO 
Report on G20 Trade Measures, published on 30 June 2017.  
2.31.  Since our last TPR in 2015, there have of course been positive developments. We had a 
successful 10th Ministerial Conference in Nairobi which took the long awaited decision to discipline 
agriculture export competition measures, including export subsidies and credits, and reached 
agreement on the expansion of the Information Technology Agreement (ITA). The wording of the 
Ministerial Declaration suggested that change was now finally upon us and that we were moving 
toward more efficient and effective work. While there has been some positive movement, the 
overall picture is not encouraging.  
2.32.  The WTO's deliberative function has continued to be challenged. Just a few weeks ago, the 
work of the General Council was blocked for several weeks because of differences of view on how 
to discuss (not negotiate, but discuss) in vestment facilitation. Other discussions on issues, 
including domestic regulation and e -commerce, continue to be stalled by endless procedural points 
and unjustified concerns. At the same time, there are constant demands for work in specific areas, 
often c oming from those who prevent broader discussions.   
2.33.  The WTO's regular work is also not as effective as it should be. While some efforts have 
been made over the last two years to improve the level of discussion in the regular bodies of this 
organisation, li ttle substantive progress has been made on key questions. A major part of this is 
the lack of compliance with notification obligations and the ensuing lack of transparency. While 
TPRs can go a certain way in alleviating the situation, nothing can solve the  problem better than 
actually ensuring that proper and complete notifications are made on time.  
2.34.  To illustrate: this Organization has an immensely important role to play on the issue of 
subsidies, which is intimately linked to the problem of overcapacity w hich is pervading a number of 
industrial sectors. While article 25 of the SCM Agreement requires Members to notify their 
subsidies, the level of compliance with this basic obligation remains highly unsatisfactory. In fact, WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  it has deteriorated significantly  since 1995 as the share of Members that notified subsidies 
decreased from 50% to 38%. As regards the notification cycle in 2015, out of the entire 
membership, a mere 62 Members notified subsidies despite the obligation to do so. This leaves 
aside the addi tional problem of the quality of the actual notifications made.  
2.35.  And finally, although the dispute settlement function is universally recognized as the crown 
jewel of this Organization, it too is under strain.  
2.36.  It is this overall context that has continued to shape the EU's trade policy over the last two 
years and which has led to a stronger focus on trade liberalisation through bilateral FTAs. And it 
has strengthened our unease about the situation in this organisation and about the persisting 
problems facin g the multilateral trading system and its inability to effectively ensure a level 
playing field.  
2.37.  Despite these shortcomings, the EU remains committed to maintaining and strengthening 
the multilateral trading system, and has continued to exercise leadershi p over the last two years. 
To recall: the EU was in 2016 the biggest trading entity in this Organization with 16.8% of world 
trade in goods and services (followed by the United States (15%) and China (13.4%)). The EU was 
the first trading partner for 84 co untries, the second for 40 countries and the third for 
22 countries. In short, the EU ranks among the first three trading partners of 146 countries.  
2.38.  And, in terms of foreign direct investments, the EU in 2015 ranked first in terms of both 
inward and outwa rd FDI stocks with a share of 38% and 48% of the world total, respectively.  
2.39.  The EU has a very open trade policy as confirmed by data and as set out in our Trade for All 
strategy. This is a reflection of our strategic and long term interest in market openne ss since no 
less than 90% of future growth will be generated outside of our borders. In essence we 
increasingly need to import to export – and our trade policy reflects that.  
2.40.  Our MFN bound and applied rates are very low, averaging 6.4% and 6.3%, respectiv ely. We 
have multiple bilateral trade agreements in place and we are negotiating even more, reflecting our 
interest to develop and deepen trade relations. On top of this, we have very generous unilateral 
schemes in place in the form of our GSP and GSP+ pro grammes, and our "Everything but Arms" 
initiative which provides duty free and quota free market access for LDC goods to the EU market. 
As an  illustration, in 2016 almost €62.6 billion of imports entered the EU under GSP preferences 
[this included: €31.6 billion of imports from countries under the Standard GSP; €7.5 billion of 
imports from GSP+ beneficiaries; and €23.5 billion under the EBA ini tiative (up 38% from 2014)].  
2.41.  The EU's openness has not stopped there however. We have continued to be the largest 
provider of technical and financial assistance, including Aid for Trade, helping those in need to 
better integrate into global trade.  
2.42.  Size is  not everything, however, and individual action is not enough to push this 
organisation forward and safeguard the multilateral trading system. This realisation is particularly 
important today, at a time of challenges to the system, a rise in protectionist tendencies and a 
popular backlash against trade, which somehow tries to suggest that a world where nations trade 
less would be better than one in which nations would trade more. The EU, and all other Members, 
have every interest in ensuring a multilateral trading system that contributes to predictable, and 
enforceable rules that can be subject to disputes that are resolved peacefully. This has been a 
fundamental truth which underpinned the work of those who established the GATT; and it has 
never been more t rue than today.  
2.43.  Major challenges remain, however. In the EU, we have experienced that citizens are far 
from unanimously convinced of the benefits of free trade and do not all directly benefit from trade. 
Indeed, even within the EU there are disparities bet ween the economic situations of our Member 
States. This is also why we continue to review and adjust internal policies to mitigate to the 
maximum extent the adverse effects of globalization; this is why we make a serious effort to 
provide clear evidence of  the benefits of trade; and this is why we are working to increase 
transparency in our negotiations.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  2.44.  In the EU, 31 million jobs depend on trade. For every €1 billion in net exports, 14 000 jobs 
are created across the EU. EU SMEs are at the origin of 80% of  EU exports. The EU is well 
integrated in the global supply chains: 80% of EU imports are raw materials, capital goods and 
components.  
2.45.  Conscious of the weight of the EU in global exchanges and of the importance on trade and 
investment for the EU economy at  large, we are well aware of the responsibilities that this entails. 
This is why we have continued to actively contribute to all WTO activities. At the same time, we 
are not naïve.  
2.46.  The most pressing concern is to ensure a level the playing field for trade rs by establishing 
new and much needed global trade rules. While the successes of Bali and Nairobi remain beyond 
doubt, much more remains to be done in order to create the conditions for fair trade to flourish. In 
the immediate perspective of preparing MC1 1, we need to collectively advance on the following 
three issues:  
2.47.  Various forms of subsidies that distort trade and affect its sustainability. This includes the 
need to advance on domestic support in agriculture as well as on fisheries subsidies. But other  
areas, such as industrial subsidies, also need to be properly tackled in the future as they lie at the 
heart of today's backlash against trade.  
2.48.  Creating an enabling environment for online transactions and helping Members reap the 
benefits of e -commerce. The debates on these issues have been too politicised while disregarding 
the obvious benefits for traders from each and every WTO Member who wants to be able to buy 
and sell more easily.  
2.49.  Supporting SMEs and making it easier for them to participate in inter national trade. This 
should include improving transparency and making information about trade requirements more 
accessible.  
2.50.  These and other areas of work need to be flanked by measures and initiatives that cater to 
the needs of the most vulnerable Members.  The EU has supported development -friendly outcomes 
in the past and will definitely continue doing so.  
2.51.  This brings an end to my statement, I hope I have answered most of your questions. Let me 
conclude by saying that we are very glad to be here presenting the EU trade policy review and are 
looking forward to your interventions. I also hope I have made clear that the EU is and will remain 
a staunch defender of the multilateral system and the WTO but we cannot do this on our own. 
Thank you for your attention.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  
3.1.  Señor Presidente Embajador Juan Carlos Gónzalez; Señor Joost Korte, Director General 
Adjunto de Comercio de la Comisión Europea; Embajador Marc Vanheukelen, distinguidos colegas.  
3.2.  Quiero aprovechar la oportunidad como relator de este examen, para destacar la labor de la 
Unión Europea (UE), cuya Misión encabezada de manera notable por su embajador ha demostrado 
un alto grado de compromiso y liderazgo con esta casa.  
3.3.  Tomando como referencia la firma de los Tratados de Roma en 195 7, este año 2017 
conmemoramos el 60º aniversario de la UE. Si realizamos una comparación con la vida de un ser 
humano, a partir de esa edad los individuos entran a una etapa madura en su vida; sin embargo, 
la UE si bien enfrenta cambios y retos, está dando  muestras de una renovada fortaleza y vitalidad 
y, más importante aún, sus perspectivas lucen promisorias aún con los retos por venir. Bien lo 
había indicado uno de los padres fundadores de la UE, Jean Monnet, que "Europa se forjará en las 
crisis y será la  suma de las soluciones adoptadas para esas crisis".  
3.4.  Participar como ponente en este décimo tercer examen de las políticas comerciales de la UE, 
además de un gran honor, es un privilegio al enmarcarse en un contexto internacional de especial 
interés para l a membresía, entre otras razones por los procesos de reforma continua de la UE,  
pero a la vez por los múltiples retos hacia adelante que enfrentará la Unión.  
3.5.  Entre estos desafíos se enmarca posiblemente el evento más inesperado: el denominado 
Brexit. Mie ntras que en el antepasado examen de las políticas comerciales se daba la bienvenida a 
Croacia, ahora la UE se encuentra ante un camino inexplorado por la salida del Reino Unido. El 
impacto de esta situación genera muchas preguntas y poca claridad, en part icular sobre la relación 
del Reino Unido con la UE, con la membresía de la Organización Mundial del Comercio (OMC) y con 
sus socios comerciales al amparo en los Acuerdos Comerciales Regionales, así como una gran 
incertidumbre en cuanto al tiempo que se req uerirá para realizar los ajustes. Este tema sin duda 
será de especial interés para la Membresía de la OMC, como quedó plasmado en diversas 
preguntas de los miembros al respecto.  
3.6.  Aunque si bien los efectos de corto plazo del Brexit se han contenido, de acue rdo con cálculos 
de la OCDE, para 2020, el impacto de este escenario en el PIB de la UE podría ser de hasta -1 
punto porcentual, mientras que en el Reino Unido sería de -3,5 puntos porcentuales.  
Entorno económico  
3.7.  La UE, en su conjunto, se ubica en segundo  lugar a nivel mundial en términos del PIB. En el 
informe de la Secretaría se indica que, si bien ha continuado con el proceso de recuperación 
después de la crisis financiera, éste se ha dado de manera desigual, con periodos de recesión 
intermedios (2015) y lo ha hecho a tasas por debajo del crecimiento del PIB mundial.  
3.8.  Para 2016 y 2017 se prevé que el crecimiento del PIB sea de alrededor del 1,7%, después de 
un crecimiento mayor de 2,55% en 2015. Este crecimiento se vio sostenido por un incremento del 
consumo privado, derivado de una mayor capacidad del ingreso disponible originado por 
reducciones en el costo de la energía y una mejora considerable del empleo.  
3.9.  Sobre este último, es digno de destacar que la tasa de desempleo ha disminuido de un 11% 
en abril de 2013 hasta ubicarse en 8,2% en diciembre de 2016, el cual es el índice más bajo desde 
febrero de 2009. Conforme al informe de gobierno, se prevé que la disminución continúe para 
2018 cuando se ubicará en 7,8%. Sin embargo, algunos Estados miembros conti núan con tasas de 
desempleo muy por encima de la media.   
3.10.  Por otra parte, algunos de sus Estados miembros han registrado tasas importantes de 
crecimiento económico, mientras que otros aún están luchando por salir de la recesión económica.  
3.11.  En este sentido,  la UE aún debe enfrentar algunos retos como la disminución en la demanda 
de economías emergentes, los altos niveles de deuda pública y privada, la escasa inversión 
pública, reducción en la captación de inversión extranjera directa, el pasivo de algunas em presas WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  propiedad del estado, el cual supera el PIB en algunos miembros y en particular, el envejecimiento 
de su población.  
Reformas  
 
3.12.  La UE ha continuado con sus esfuerzos de reformas, algunas de ellas comenzadas desde el 
periodo de examen anterior y que a hora están en distintas etapas de implementación, y también 
ha dado inicio a otras nuevas. De éstas destacan:  
3.13.  La estrategia Europa 2020, la cual cuenta con el objetivo de un crecimiento inteligente, 
sostenible e integrador. Esta estrategia cuenta con tres  prioridades económicas: inversión, 
responsabilidad fiscal y reformas estructurales. Respecto a las reformas estructurales, el informe 
de la Secretaría indica que los progresos son lentos en general, y más recientemente ha perdido 
impulso la reforma en su conjunto. Las áreas de reformas lentas están relacionadas con el 
fortalecimiento del entorno empresarial, el empleo, la participación de la mujer en el mercado 
laboral y la reducción de los obstáculos a la competencia en el ámbito de los servicios.  
3.14.  En 2015  se emitió la nueva política denominada Comercio para todos: hacia una política de 
comercio e inversión más responsable, la cual respalda las cadenas globales de valor ya que 
reconoce que aumentar el costo de las importaciones reduce la capacidad de las em presas de 
vender e insertarse en los mercados mundiales. También destaca la importancia del comercio de 
servicios y del comercio electrónico, este último como un pilar mediante en el cual las pequeñas y 
medianas empresas (PYMEs) pueden expandir sus mercado s.  
3.15.  En 2015 se aprobó un programa de mejora regulatoria a fin de reducir los costos 
innecesarios de su legislación.  
3.16.  En 2016 se instrumentó una Directiva de Servicios con el fin de fortalecer y simplificar el 
establecimiento de prestadores de servicios, imp ulsar el comercio intra -UE, así como el 
fortalecimiento del marco regulatorio para proteger los derechos de los consumidores. Además, la 
directiva se complementa con acciones para fortalecer el marco regulatorio para crear un mercado 
único digital, como la  eliminación reciente de los cargos de itinerancia que permitirá eliminar 
obstáculos a los servicios digitales.  
3.17.  También es importante destacar otras acciones que la UE está por emprender.  
3.18.  En materia de inversión, una reforma respecto a los procedimientos d e solución de 
diferencias ante los cuestionamientos de la sociedad civil.  
3.19.  Fortalecer y mejorar la participación de las PYMES, con inclusión de disposiciones específicas 
en los nuevos acuerdos comerciales regionales en materia de normalización a través de la 
"Iniciativa sobre las empresas emergentes y en expansión" y el apoyo para la utilización de los 
derechos de propiedad intelectual.  
OMC 
 
3.20.  En apoyo al sistema multilateral de comercio, la UE se ha caracterizado por su compromiso 
con la apertura comercial y ha buscado diferentes vías para lograrlo, de las que destacan 
iniciativas plurilaterales respecto al comercio de servicios, tecnologías de la información y bienes 
ambientales, así como la intensificación de su agenda de negociaciones bilaterales.   
3.21.  En es te sentido, al buscar otras vías para el libre comercio, la UE procura que sean 
complementarias al sistema multilateral del comercio. En mi opinión, no estamos ante un camino 
disyuntivo ("a fork in the road") en el que debamos elegir el multilateralismo o el plurilateralismo, 
sino ante una situación en la que las iniciativas se pueden reforzar mutuamente en aras de un bien 
común, la OMC.  
3.22.  Cabe destacar que la UE literalmente se ha "echado al hombro" el peso de trabajar en una 
serie de ideas que estimulan la discusión para posibles entregables en la 11ª Conferencia 
Ministerial y más allá, en diversas áreas de las negociaciones. Ese compromiso con la Organización 
se explicita en su informe de Gobierno, cuando reitera que "el sistema multilateral de comercio WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  debe ocupar un lugar central en el marco de la gobernanza mundial que los Miembros de la OMC 
deben fomentar y desarrollar colectivamente".  
3.23.  En cuanto a la llamada "joya de la corona" –el sistema de solución de diferencias de la 
OMC–, por su contribución al com ercio mundial, la participación de la UE es muy alta al ocupar el 
2º lugar como reclamante; el 2º lugar como demandado; el 2º lugar considerando reclamante y 
demandado y también el 2º puesto si sumamos todas las facetas. Ciertamente sería deseable que 
la UE pudiera alejarse de los primeros lugares como Miembro demandado.  
3.24.  Especial mención merece la ayuda para el comercio que la UE y sus Estados miembros 
proporcionan a la Organización, al ubicarse como el mayor proveedor mundial en seis distintas 
categorías,  según fue también constatado en el examen anterior. África es la región que recibió la 
mayor parte de esta ayuda.  
Políticas comerciales  
Agricultura  
 
3.25.  La UE ha continuado con la reforma de su política agrícola común para el período 
2014-2020, de forma que  existan menos apoyos con efectos de distorsión del comercio. Al día de 
hoy, alrededor del 50% de los apoyos a los productores está condicionado a compromisos 
ambientales. Sin embargo, de acuerdo con la OCDE, en 2015 y 2016 se ha incrementado el apoyo 
ligado a la producción. Por otra parte, en línea con la Decisión Ministerial de Nairobi, la UE ha 
eliminado los subsidios a la exportación, aunque, como algunas preguntas de los Miembros 
destacaron, aún está pendiente la notificación del ajuste en su lista de compromisos.  
3.26.  Si bien los aranceles agrícolas se han reducido marginalmente, al pasar de 14,4% en 2014 
a 14,1% en 2016, éstos representan más de tres veces el promedio industrial (4,3%). En cuanto a 
los picos arancelarios, el máximo aplicado de casi 700% es  para solo una línea, lo cual llevó a 
prácticamente nulificar sus importaciones. Otros picos se encuentran en animales vivos (132%), 
frutas, hortalizas y plantas (169%) y azúcar (172%).  
3.27.  Además, muchos productos están sujetos a derechos no ad valorem , los cuales van desde 
derechos específicos simples hasta formas mucho más complejas como las del cuadro Meursing. 
Aunado a esto hay un importante número de productos sujetos a licencias de importación y 
exportación, y cuotas arancelarias. Sobre estas últimas, a lgunos Miembros cuestionaron las 
razones por las cuales algunas no se llenaron.   
Aduanas  
 
3.28.  En materia aduanera, la UE cuenta con una serie de importantes avances, como realizar la 
mayor parte de sus trámites en forma electrónica, que las declaraciones de i mportación se 
despachen en menos de una hora; así como contar con un programa de operadores autorizados 
basados en el sistema de la Organización Mundial de Aduanas. Recientemente, está dando pasos 
importantes en la implementación de la ventanilla única. Em pero, la UE cuenta con algunos 
importantes retos como el no tener una autoridad aduanera central, lo cual podría derivar en una 
aplicación aduanera no homogénea, preocupación que ha sido externada por diversos Miembros.  
Transparencia  
 
3.29.  La transparencia es u n elemento de alta relevancia para la UE. No obstante, según el 
informe de la Secretaría, la UE tiene pendiente cumplir con esa obligación respecto a las 
modificaciones a la legislación o reglamentación en materia de salvaguardias, valoración en 
aduana, no rmas de origen y empresas comerciales del Estado.  
Normalización  
 
3.30.  En relación con la normalización es importante destacar la participación de las PYMES y de 
las organizaciones no gubernamentales (ONGs) en el proceso de normalización. En esta materia se 
debe resaltar la Iniciativa Conjunta sobre Normalización firmada en junio del año pasado que tiene 
como objetivo agilizar la normalización y fijar prioridades. Para efectos de los reglamentos técnicos WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  se dispone de un período de tres meses contados a partir d e la notificación de un reglamento 
técnico para la aplicación de la medida. Aquí cabe recordar que, conforme a la interpretación del 
Órgano de Apelación, la Decisión Ministerial de Doha establece que, entre la publicación y la 
entrada en vigor del reglamen to técnico, debe transcurrir al menos seis meses para su aplicación.  
En este sentido, los miembros podrían estar interesados en saber por qué esta diferencia.   
Medidas Sanitarias y Fitosanitarias  
 
3.31.  Se debe felicitar a la UE por la nueva legislación en mat eria de medidas sanitarias y 
fitosanitarias, la cual consensa aproximadamente 70 actos legislativos diferentes en únicamente 
cuatro. No obstante, las preocupaciones de algunos Miembros persisten en ciertos casos 
específicos, en particular en lo relativo al  enfoque basado en gestión del riesgo y en la mejor 
evidencia científica disponible al adoptar y aplicar medidas en relación con los disruptores 
endocrinos.  
Contratación pública  
3.32.  Respecto a la contratación pública, en 2015 el gasto aumentó a más del 13% del  PIB. Los 
contratos se publican en el Tender Electronic Daily (TED); empero, apenas el 17% del valor total 
de los contratos fue publicado en ese medio, con importantes variaciones como del 6% en 
Alemania al 65% en Letonia. Esto a pesar de que se ha venido haciendo obligatoria la contratación 
pública por medios electrónicos. Es de destacar que, en el marco del Acuerdo sobre Contratación 
Pública, la UE realizó importantes compromisos de acceso a los mercados, al incluir nuevos 
sectores y entidades en sus list as, tanto a nivel de la UE como gobiernos centrales y subcentrales 
de los Estados Miembro.   
Propiedad intelectual  
3.33.  En 2013, las mercancías importadas objeto de falsificación y piratería representaron un 5% 
de las importaciones totales de la UE. Internet ha  sido el canal de distribución más grande de los 
productos falsificados. En estas circunstancias la Comisión Europea ha formulado propuestas 
legislativas para modernizar la observancia de los derechos de propiedad intelectual, en particular 
respecto a las infracciones de escala comercial y la aplicación transfronteriza.  
Medio ambiente  
3.34.  En cuanto a la materia medioambiental, la UE ha adoptado una serie de acciones para la 
protección del medio ambiente y para la consecución de los objetivos de desarrollo sost enible 
dentro de la Agenda 2030 mediante un nuevo paquete de economía circular. En este mismo 
sentido, la UE ha mantenido esfuerzos para combatir el cambio climático destacando el Acuerdo de 
París que entró en vigor en noviembre de 2016 al haberlo ratifica do la UE.  
3.35.  Por lo que se refiere al régimen comercial de traslado de residuos, es preocupante que 
debido a los costos de su tratamiento y eliminación exista una motivación para el traslado ilícito. El 
informe de la Secretaría indica que es posible que se e stén exportando ilegalmente desde la UE 
400,000 toneladas anuales de residuos de aparatos eléctricos y electrónicos. Lo anterior a pesar 
de que desde el examen pasado se reconoció que el reglamento pertinente de la UE prohíbe las 
exportaciones a países que  no son miembros de la OCDE.  
Palabras finales  
3.36.  La integración de la UE tiene distintos niveles: todos los Estados miembros están en un 
mercado común; 26 son parte de la unión bancaria, 21 en el espacio Schengen y 19 tienen el euro 
como divisa común. Geográf icamente el continente europeo es más que los actuales Estados 
miembros. Existen 5 Estados como países candidatos a ingresar a la Unión, y 2 más como 
candidatos potenciales, por lo que la diversidad de la UE es y seguirá siendo un desafío a la vez 
que una oportunidad.  
3.37.  Dado el rol crítico que juega la UE en el sistema multilateral del comercio, lo que suceda con 
la Unión nos debe ocupar a todos; cualquier acción u omisión, positiva o negativa, tiene un 
impacto de largo alcance. A la Membresía le conviene qu e la UE se mantenga fuerte y estable, WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  transparente, abierta, en constante proceso de reforma y avance a pasos sólidos hacia una mayor 
integración intra -UE y la liberalización con terceros países.  
3.38.  Felicitamos a la UE por los logros obtenidos al momento. Po r el bien del sistema 
multilateral, le deseamos éxito para abordar los retos por venir, y la encomiamos a trabajar en las 
ventanas de oportunidad que los propios miembros han identificado en este examen. Finalmente, 
felicito también a la Membresía por el i nterés mostrado respecto a este examen, que al día de ayer 
se reflejaba en más de 1,000 preguntas hechas a la UE.  
3.39.  Hago un llamado a las delegaciones para que en este examen se pueda sostener un 
intercambio sustantivo, y le deseo a la UE un muy exitoso exam en de sus políticas comerciales.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBER S 
COLOMBIA  
4.1.  En primer lugar, queremos resaltar y agradecer el importante papel de la Unión Europea 
como gran jugador de esta Organización, impulsor del comercio y de la inversión internacional, 
promotor del desarrollo a través de la cooperación en el comercio, y activo participante sistémico 
que apoya el fortalecimiento del sistema multilateral de comercio. Con miras a la Ministerial de 
Buenos Aires, destacamos el rol de la Unión Europea como actor propos itivo y constructivo que 
participa activamente a través de la presentación de propuestas en temas tan diversos como 
agricultura, servicios, comercio electrónico y pesca.  
4.2.  También deseamos aprovechar esta oportunidad para agradecer el significativo apoyo que  
Colombia ha recibido de la Unión Europea en el proceso para conseguir la paz y en esta nueva 
etapa de consolidación política, económica y social que hemos iniciado en el postconflicto.  
4.3.  La Unión Europea es actualmente el principal socio para Colombia en m ateria agrícola, 
gracias al aprovechamiento del Acuerdo Multiparte entre Colombia, Perú y Ecuador, por un lado, y 
la UE por otro. Es igualmente un socio fundamental para fomentar el desarrollo social a través del 
crecimiento económico y comercial.  
4.4.  A parti r del informe de la Secretaría, nos es grato observar la positiva evolución económica 
que ha tenido la Unión Europea en los últimos años, recuperándose paulatinamente de la crisis de 
2008, lo cual se evidencia, de una parte, en el comportamiento del PIB re al y, de otra parte, en el 
descenso de la tasa de desempleo. Para la economía mundial es crucial que la Unión Europea 
consolide esta senda de crecimiento y su rol como motor para el comercio internacional.  
4.5.  En este sentido, vemos con satisfacción que la Uni ón Europea es el primer importador de 
bienes a nivel mundial por un valor superior a los 1.72 trillones de euros, así como el principal 
importador y exportador de servicios del mundo. Adicionalmente, destacamos que el euro se 
mantiene como la segunda moned a del sistema económico internacional, representando 
aproximadamente el 30% de los pagos mundiales en 2016  
4.6.  A nivel bilateral, nuestro acuerdo comercial con la Unión Europea, que entró en vigor en 
agosto de 2013, ha permitido un importante crecimiento de l as exportaciones de nuestros 
productos no minero energéticos, así como una diversificación de las líneas exportadas. Esperamos 
que esta tendencia se fortalezca en los próximos años y destacamos que en su conjunto, la Unión 
Europea es el segundo socio comer cial de Colombia y la primera fuente de inversión extranjera 
directa en el país. Colombia por su parte es el quinto socio comercial de la Unión Europea en 
Latinoamérica y el cuarto en Suramérica.  
4.7.  En este contexto, deseamos  agradecer a la Unión Europea y p or su intermedio a la DG 
Sante, autoridad sanitaria europea, la asistencia técnica y todo el trabajo realizado en estos 
últimos años, junto con nuestras autoridades sanitarias, con el fin de reanudar nuestras 
exportaciones de productos compuestos, suspendi das desde hace varios años.  
4.8.  De otra parte, quisiéramos aprovechar esta oportunidad para mencionar algunos puntos de 
interés sobre la evolución de la política comercial de la Unión Europea, algunos de los cuales se 
reflejan en las preguntas que hemos prepar ado para este examen y cuyas oportunas respuestas 
queremos agradecer a la delegación de la Unión Europea.  
4.9.  El primero de ellos está relacionado con la ejecución de la política aduanera comunitaria, por 
las diversas aduanas de sus países miembros, sin que e xista necesariamente un criterio de 
homogeneidad o estandarización. En este sentido, la existencia de criterios de estandarización del 
accionar aduanero en los países miembros de la UE, así como la eventual posibilidad de 
controvertir a nivel comunitario l as decisiones adoptadas por las autoridades aduaneras 
nacionales, resulta de vital importancia de cara a ofrecer predictibilidad y seguridad jurídica para 
pequeños y grandes exportadores.  
4.10.  Nuestras autoridades igualmente se encuentran muy interesadas en co nocer el 
funcionamiento del procedimiento y los términos para el otorgamiento del registro de indicaciones WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  geográficas en la Unión Europea. Observamos que la UE es un gran demandante de la protección 
por indicaciones geográficas de varios de sus productos más emblemáticos, y es de nuestro interés 
que la protección para productos provenientes de terceros países, como es el caso de Colombia, se 
surta también con la mayor agilidad posible.  
4.11.  En el ámbito de las medidas sanitarias y fitosanitarias. Colombia sigu e con cuidadosa 
atención las eventuales regulaciones que la Unión Europea está considerando adoptar, incluyendo 
los criterios para la definición de disruptores endocrinos. Esperamos que estos criterios sean 
valorados con un enfoque científico y basado en e l riesgo, previniendo potenciales restricciones 
injustificadas al comercio.   
4.12.  De otra parte, en materia de acuerdos y arreglos comerciales, el informe de la Secretaría 
señala que actualmente la Unión Europea está revisando sus competencias para firmar y co ncluir 
acuerdos de Inversión. En las respuestas que nos dio UE observamos la importancia de la revisión 
que se está adelantando con miras a regular el accionar de los árbitros en procesos de inversión. 
Este tema suscita especial interés para Colombia, por los acuerdos bilaterales de inversión 
vigentes entre nuestro país y diferentes miembros de la UE.  
4.13.  En el contexto de las negociaciones de cara a la Ministerial, disciplinar los subsidios 
otorgados a la pesca, es uno de los principales resultados esperados. Así las cosas, el informe de 
la Secretaría sobre los fondos europeos para subsidiar la pesca nos causa particular atención y 
preocupación. Las implicaciones que estos subsidios pueden tener en la sobrepesca y 
sobrecapacidad pesquera, a nivel mundial, reafi rma la importancia de lograr en el corto plazo una 
negociación exitosa.   
4.14.  Otro tema de especial relevancia son las eventuales medidas que pretende adoptar la Unión 
Europea para controlar la exportación de desechos a terceros países. Las respuestas otorgada s por 
la UE ilustran el trabajo de las autoridades para combatir este flagelo y de esta manera proteger el 
medio ambiente global. Estaremos atentos a las acciones que adopten las autoridades europeas en 
esta materia.  
4.15.  Finalmente, queremos manifestar nuestr o interés en los potenciales efectos que podría 
tener la salida del Reino Unido de la Unión Europea para terceros países, tanto en el ámbito 
multilateral como en el marco de las relaciones bilaterales; así como en los procedimientos que se 
seguirán para ev itar consecuencias adversas a terceros.  
4.16.  De esta forma termino mi intervención, no sin antes agradecer al embajador Marc 
Vanheukelen y a su equipo en Ginebra, por su siempre constructiva disposición a trabajar por el 
bien del sistema multilateral. Dicho lo anterior, le deseamos a la Unión Europea un exitoso y 
constructivo Examen de Políticas Comerciales.  
SINGAPORE  ON BEHALF  OF ASEAN  
4.17.  2017 is an important year as it marks the 40th anniversary of ASEAN -EU dialogue relations. 
Two-way trade and investment ties ha ve been steadily growing since our dialogue was formalized.  
4.18.  The EU is ASEAN's third trading partner and total trade stood at €208 billion in 2016. The 
EU remains ASEAN's largest source of FDI with a total value of €23.3 billion in 2015.  
4.19.  We are confident that ASEAN -EU partnership will continue to be strengthened over the 
years as we advance in our economic integration ef forts. Notably, ASEAN and the EU took an 
important step this year towards an ASEAN -EU FTA. Our Ministers have agreed to the formulation 
of a framework setting out the parameters of our future FTA.  
4.20.  ASEAN is confident that we will be able to come up with a c lear framework that will guide us 
forward for the negotiations and towards deeper region -to-region economic integration.  
4.21.  We appreciate the EU's commitment in contributing to ASEAN's efforts in realizing the 
ASEAN Economic Community through various programm es and initiatives under the ASEAN 
Regional Integration Support from the EU, the EU -ASEAN Capacity Building Programme for WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  Monitoring Integration Progress and Statistics and also the ASEAN -EU Trade and Investment Work 
Programme.  
4.22.  ASEAN is confident that thes e efforts will help us to meet our long term vision as envisaged 
in the Nuremberg Declaration on an ASEAN -EU Advanced Partnership.  
4.23.  ASEAN commends the EU's active engagement in this House and commitment to 
multilateralism. We look forward to working closely  with the EU to achieve meaningful outcomes at 
MC11.  
4.24.  Some of us have submitted written questions to the EU and we would like to express our 
appreciation to the EU in advance for their written responses.  
4.25.  ASEAN wishes the EU a successful Trade Policy Review . 
SINGAPORE  
4.26.  Singapore and the EU enjoy strong economic ties. The EU is Singapore's third largest 
trading partner and largest foreign investor. Last year, bilateral trade amounted to S$93 billion, 
accounting for 11% of Singapore's total trade. Foreign Direc t Investment from the EU has 
increased six -fold from 2005 to 2015, reaching an FDI stock value of S$288 billion in 2015. 
Singapore is home to over 13,000 EU companies, reflecting Singapore's role as a gateway to Asia 
for these companies. Singapore also enj oys warm and robust bilateral economic relations with 
respective EU Member States.  
4.27.  EU-Singapore bilateral ties will be further enhanced with the ratification of the EU -Singapore 
Free Trade Agreement (EUSFTA). We are glad that there have been developments o n this front 
since the EU's last TPR. The European Court of Justice (ECJ) has delivered its Opinion on the issue 
of EU competence. Singapore is working closely with the EU for the EUSFTA to be ratified as soon 
as possible. The EUSFTA will expand market acc ess and commercial opportunities for Singapore 
and EU companies. As the first FTA between the EU and an ASEAN Member State, the EUSFTA is 
testament to the EU's commitment to greater economic engagement with ASEAN and will serve as 
a building block towards an eventual EU -ASEAN FTA.  
4.28.  Whilst it has been a mere two years since the EU's last TPR, much has changed. Grievances 
of job displacements and anti -trade sentiments globally have grown stronger. Brexit is before us. 
As a major player in international trade,  it is incumbent upon the EU to lead by example and stay 
the course of trade liberalisation and open markets. We appreciate the EU's efforts to do so in the 
face of increasing pressures to turn inward. Several initiatives aimed at trade facilitation have b een 
implemented. These include the EU's ratification of the WTO TFA, the "EU: Trade for All" policy, the 
new Union Customs Code which will simplify and modernise customs procedures, the full 
implementation of the EU's Common Agricultural Policy and reforms  in the maritime and transport 
sectors.  
4.29.  However, the EU's ability to maintain trade and investment openness cannot be taken for 
granted. Economic recovery across the EU continues to be uneven. There is uncertainty as the EU 
engages the UK on the latter's t erms of exit from the EU, which will have a significant impact on 
the EU's trading partners. We urge the EU to work closely with its trading partners and the UK to 
ensure that trade disruptions as a result of Brexit are minimal.  
4.30.  We continue to have some c oncerns with the EU's trade policy, namely in the following 
areas: (i) the EU's complex decision making process on trade and investment measures; 
(ii) challenges in interpreting implementing regulations in light of EU Directives; and (iii) the rise of 
trade remedy actions. We also encourage the EU to continue to look into areas of possible reform 
in its Agriculture sector as it remains one of the most protected sectors of the EU. We have sought 
clarity on some of these issues through our written questions t o the EU and take the opportunity 
to thank the EU for their responses.  
4.31.  On the multilateral front, we are encouraged by Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom's 
commitment "to maintain and strengthen the multilateral trading system", which is the very basis 
of glo bal trade. Regional and bilateral initiatives are complementary to the multilateral track. We WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  are glad to have the EU as a partner in upholding an open, rules -based and inclusive global trading 
system. We look forward to the EU's continued active contribut ions to the work of the WTO, 
including in promoting trade facilitation and liberalisation.  
4.32.  Finally, my delegation shares excellent working relations with the able team in the EU 
Mission in Geneva, headed by Ambassador Marc Vanheukelen. We hope to continue such relations 
here and beyond. We wish the EU every success in its 13th Trade Policy Review.   
REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
4.33.  We welcome that the EU plays a leading role in the WTO and continues to pursue trade 
liberalization through bilateral free trade agreements. D uring the review period, the EU helped 
conclude the ITA expansion and constructively engaged in the EGA and the TISA negotiations. The 
EU signed the CETA with Canada last year and has a number of free trade agreements under 
negotiation.  
4.34.  We also note that t he EU is simplifying and improving its customs procedures with the new 
Union Customs Code. We are pleased that the EU is making efforts for the harmonization of 
technical requirements across the EU and provides non -reciprocal preferential tariff regimes fo r 
developing countries through the GSP, GSP plus and Everything But Arms programs.  
4.35.  Over the years, Korea and the EU have enjoyed a stable and healthy economic partnership. 
Last year, the EU was Korea's third - largest trading partner and the EU remains Kore a's largest 
source of foreign direct investment.  
4.36.  In particular, we are pleased to note that the Korea -EU FTA marked its 6th anniversary on 
1 July 2017. We believe that the FTA has served as a critical building block in strengthening the 
economic ties betw een Korea and the EU. We hope that the FTA continues to help achieve a more 
balanced expansion of trade and investment.  
4.37.  At this TPR, my delegation submitted advance written questions on the SME policy and 
Copyright Directive of the EU. We are very grateful  that the EU delegation provided detailed replies 
in a timely manner, and we will study them very carefully.  
4.38.  My delegation also would like to submit additional follow -up questions, in particular 
regarding some investment related issues, including the conc ept of the multilateral investment 
court, the internal process for bilateral FTAs of the EU and the Radio Equipment Directive. We hope 
that proper answers will be given in due course.  
4.39.  In addition, I would like to take this opportunity to point out some of our interests regarding 
the trade policies of the EU.  
4.40.  First, it is our hope that the EU will continue to demonstrate its leadership in fighting against 
protectionism and promoting free trade. Korea looks forward to working closely together in this 
area wit h the EU at various international forums to this end in the WTO as well as G20 and ASEM.  
4.41.  Second, we note the EU has initiated a number of new anti -dumping and anti -subsidy 
investigations especially for iron and steel, and chemical products since 2014. Thos e are our main 
exporting products to the EU. We would like to express our concern on this trend and we hope the 
EU will take trade remedy measures consistent with the relevant WTO disciplines.  
4.42.  Third, we are concerned that Brexit negotiations between the EU  and the U.K. could have 
certain impacts on trade and investment due to increased uncertainties. We would appreciate if 
such concerns could be addressed properly during the negotiations and relevant information could 
be shared with WTO members in a transpa rent manner.  
4.43.  We welcome that the EU is making serious efforts in many areas to seek convergence on 
possible substantive outcomes of MC11. Korea appreciates the EU's efforts, and we would like to 
continue to cooperate with the EU before and at MC11 and also  beyond to strengthen the 
multilateral trading system.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.44.  We would like to express our warm thanks once again to the EU delegation for their hard 
work and wish them every success in their TPR.  
CHINA  
4.45.  The EU is the world's second largest importer and exporter i n goods and the largest trader 
in services. The EU's trade policies, measures and economic development have significant impact 
on the world trade and other WTO Members, since it has become the largest trading partner of 
80 countries and regions. During the  review period, the EU's economy continued to grow. Trade 
has been one of the most important engines for such growth, as the EU Trade Commissioner 
Cecilia Malmström pointed out, "Trade makes a vital contribution to the EU's economic and 
external policy and  we must make sure that it continues to deliver real benefits for citizens." China 
applauds the EU for its support for trade liberalization, and hopes that taking the stance like EU 
can effectively reverse the surging emotional backlash against trade, glob alization and the 
multilateral trading system.  
4.46.  Multilaterally, the EU is a key player in the WTO, and has long been a staunch advocate of 
globalization and a strong supporter of multilateralism. I am pleased to note that there are two 
ONLYs in the EU's Go vernment report, "It is only the multilateral trading system that can 
guarantee inclusive growth and can ensure the expansion of real development opportunities for 
the poorest and most -vulnerable WTO Members. And it is only the WTO which has the tools and 
geographic scope to create a level playing field for traders." China and the EU share the same 
understanding on promoting inclusive growth and establishing rules favorable for development, 
and especially advancing trade and investment liberalization and fa cilitation. China stands ready to 
intensify cooperation with the EU, so as to uphold the multilateral trading system and safeguard 
WTO core principles, to strive for positive outcomes at the MC11, ultimately ensuring the 
multilateral trading system to play  an increasingly important role in the process of globalization 
and global economic governance.  
4.47.  Bilaterally, China and the EU are important trading and investment partners. At present, the 
EU is China's largest trading partner, largest source of imports an d technology import, second 
largest export market, and third largest source of real investment. China is the EU's largest source 
of imports, second largest trading partner and export market. China applauds the comprehensive 
ties in Sino -EU economic and tra de relations.  
4.48.  Having said that, I would express some of our concerns over the EU's trade policies.  
4.49.  First, China urges the EU to fulfill its obligations under Article 15 of the Protocol on China's 
Accession to the WTO. According to Article 15, the provisio ns on "analogue country" expired on 
11 December 2016. Therefore, all WTO Members shall terminate the methodology in anti -dumping 
investigations against Chinese products. All Members must, in accordance with the WTO rules, use 
the prices or costs of enterpr ises in the exporting country to determine the dumping margin. Pacta 
sunt servanda is a basic principle of international law. Failure to meet international obligations will 
undermine the foundation of the multilateral trading system as well as the healthy development of 
international trade.   
4.50.  China deeply regrets that the EU failed to complete the legislative amendment process 
before the expiry of the Article 15. China notes the fact that EU has proposed amendments 
abolishing the current inappropriate list of non -market economy countries. However, the EU's 
proposed amendment has introduced the concept of so -called "significant distortion" of the 
market, a basis for its continued use of the analogue country methodology against Members. 
China is highly concern ed with the inconsistency of this concept with the WTO rules. And we urge 
the EU to complete the amendment process promptly and ensure the relevant revisions be in line 
with the WTO rules.  
4.51.  Second, China calls on the EU to use trade remedy measures in a pru dent way. Over the 
past two years, the EU has launched 12 anti -dumping and countervailing investigations against 
Chinese products, among which 9 investigations involve iron and steel products. The intense use of 
trade remedy measures has negative effects o n the normal trade in iron and steel products 
between China and the EU. More recently, the European Commission has frequently launched 
investigations on the grounds of threats of injury, intentionally accelerated investigation processes, WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  and abused the bes t information available in order to raise the anti -dumping duty rate. All these 
actions signaled the trend of protectionism. China calls on the EU to strictly comply with WTO rules 
in the investigations. And we are willing to fight against protectionism th rough concerted efforts 
with the EU.  
4.52.  Third, China urges the EU to relax its restrictions on high -tech exports to China. The EU has 
persistently imposed strict export control policies on China, which has considerably restricted the 
export of EU's high -tech products to China. The strict restrictions both weakened the advantages 
and competitiveness of the EU in the high -tech field, and impaired the interest of enterprises in 
China and the EU. We hope that the EU will take concrete actions and relax export rest rictions on 
China in the spirit of mutual trust and benefit as well as win -win cooperation, so as to build a more 
favorable environment for bilateral high -tech trade and cooperation.  
4.53.  Fourth, China expects the EU to optimize the investment environment. Inve stment 
cooperation is an important pillar of China -EU economic and trade relations. China always 
welcomes EU enterprises to invest in China, and encourages Chinese enterprises to do business in 
the EU. We are willing to accelerate negotiations with the EU on a high level and balanced BIT, in 
order to create a more transparent, open and stable investment environment. We also hope that 
the EU will give fair treatment to the Chinese enterprises more fairly, facilitate visa application, 
and remove restrictions on foreign capital mergers and acquisitions, etc.  
4.54.  China is a staunch supporter for the unity and prosperity of the European continent, and 
attaches great importance to developing bilateral relations and cooperation with the EU. A month 
ago, Premier Li Keqi ang stated that, during his visit in Europe, no matter how the situation in 
Europe and the world evolves, China will always be ready to deepen its comprehensive strategic 
partnership with the EU. We will continue to give firm support to the European integr ation process, 
and are willing to work with the EU to promote consensus, increase mutual trust and inject vitality 
into world economic development.  
4.55.  Last but not the least, I would like to thank the EU delegation for their responses to China's 
written quest ions, which we will study carefully.  
4.56.  I wish this trade policy review a complete success.  
SUISSE  
4.57.  L'Union européenne reste de loin le partenaire commercial le plus important de la Suisse 
même si d'autres débouchés, par exemple dans des pays émergents, gagne nt en importance. 
L'année dernière, la Suisse a exporté plus de la moitié de ses marchandises vers l'Union 
européenne. De surcroît, plus de deux tiers des importations suisses en provenaient. L'Union 
européenne est donc un élément -clef des relations commer ciales de la Suisse. Cela dit, la Suisse 
constitue aussi un débouché important pour l'Union européenne.   
4.58.  En effet, comme le relève l'excellent rapport du Secrétariat, la Suisse représente le 
troisième marché le plus important pour les producteurs et expor tateurs européens. Elle se classe 
immédiatement après les États -Unis et la Chine qui sont des géants économiques.  
4.59.  Notre relation dynamique, étroite et mutuellement fructueuse avec l'Union européenne est, 
entre autres, liée aux bénéfices que procurent les règles de l'OMC. Elle est également liée à la 
situation géographique de la Suisse. Mais elle est surtout le résultat d'un édifice d'accords 
bilatéraux construit avec l'Union européenne depuis 1972. L'Union européenne et la Suisse ont 
conclus près de 120 ac cords qui offrent un accès étendu et réciproque à leurs marchés respectifs. 
Le bon fonctionnement de ces accords est donc primordial. C'est dans cette perspective que le 
gouvernement suisse a affirmé récemment qu'il souhaitait renforcer les relations avec l'Union 
européenne.  
4.60.  La Suisse apprécie à sa juste valeur le rôle très constructif que joue la délégation de l'Union 
européenne dans les diverses enceintes de l'OMC, notamment dans le contexte des préparatifs de 
la prochaine conférence ministérielle. L'Uni on défend le système de l'OMC avec ferveur. Elle a le 
souci constant d'étoffer la coopération commerciale multilatérale et est à l'origine de nombreuses WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  initiatives novatrices. Nous saluons cet engagement qui a d'autant plus de poids qu'il émane d'une 
grande puissance commerciale.  
4.61.  L'Union européenne a fait des efforts importants pour améliorer sa gouvernance 
économique en instaurant "le semestre européen" de même qu'un pacte de stabilité et de 
croissance. La Suisse encourage l'Union à poursuivre et approfo ndir ces réformes structurelles. Les 
problèmes économiques de certains de ses États membres et l'insécurité qui en résulte ont des 
effets immédiats et souvent négatifs sur ses principaux partenaires, dont la Suisse.  
4.62.  Dans cet esprit, la Suisse souhaite viv ement que la sortie imminente d'un membre 
important de l'Union se déroule dans le bon ordre et entraîne un minimum de perturbations. Une 
rupture abrupte n'est dans l'intérêt de personne. Nous souhaitons vivement qu'un cadre 
réglementaire prévisible et tran sparent régisse les nouvelles relations qui devront être établies et 
que la transition vers le nouveau régime se fasse en douceur, également pour les pays tiers.  
4.63.  l'Union européenne a réalisé qu'une économie moins intensive en ressources naturelles et 
plus verte ouvrait de nouvelles perspectives commerciales. Les orientations prises soutiennent la 
mise en œuvre des objectifs climatiques mondiaux convenus dans l'accord de Paris et dans les 
objectifs de l'Agenda 2030. Nous félicitons l'Union et ses États -memb res pour leurs engagements 
et leur action dans ces domaines. Nous sommes particulièrement heureux du rôle actif que l'Union 
joue dans les négociations pour un accord pour les biens environnementaux et au sein du G20 et 
du G7 pour l'élimination progressive des subventions aux combustibles fossiles et des réformes 
politiques connexes.  
4.64.  Pour conclure, permettez -moi de soulever un point spécifique. Les producteurs suisses de 
certains produits sidérurgiques ont été sensiblement affectés par l'application du "méca nisme de 
surveillance préalable" introduit le 30 avril 2016. La Suisse a signifié à plusieurs reprises à la 
Commission européenne ses vives préoccupations à ce propos. Nos préoccupations portent aussi 
bien sur les effets commerciaux restrictifs du mécanism e que sur les dysfonctionnements liés à sa 
mise en œuvre par les États membres de l'Union européenne. Nous remercions l'Union pour les 
informations qui ont été fournies en réponse à nos questions écrites sur l'adaptation de ces 
mesures. Nous procédons actu ellement à l'examen de ces adaptations.  
4.65.  La Suisse est reconnaissante à l'Union européenne d'avoir fourni des réponses détaillées à 
toutes les questions qu'elle a soumises par écrit. Nous souhaitons à la délégation européenne une 
bonne suite d'examen.  
UNITE D STATES  
4.66.  Our economic relationship with the EU is immensely valuable to the U.S. economy, and is 
indeed a critical pillar of the global economy. Our economies together account for nearly half of 
global GDP (46.5%) and 32% of global trade. Each day, goods a nd services worth nearly 
US$3  billion are traded across the Atlantic. At the end of 2015, the value of our direct investment 
in each other's economies totalled nearly US$4.5 trillion.  
4.67.  These figures describe a substantial economic relationship, but we belie ve this relationship 
has not yet fulfilled its potential to promote growth in our respective economies, nor in the 
economies of many other Members that engage in significant trade with each of us.  
4.68.  As we noted during the EU's last trade policy review, in 20 15, most of our trade with the EU 
proceeds without complication, unaffected by significant trade barriers. Nonetheless, we have 
growing concerns about EU policies in a number of areas that create unjustified or unnecessary 
barriers to trade.  
4.69.  Over the past three years, as we negotiated the Transatlantic Trade and Investment 
Partnership agreement, or T -TIP, we worked to eliminate some of those trade barriers, including 
existing measures that each side believes impede trade. Let me flag a few of our more promi nent 
concerns this morning.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.70.  The United States continues to be frustrated by EU barriers to our agricultural exports. High 
tariffs present a significant obstacle to the capacity of our producers to succeed in the important 
EU market.  
4.71.  Another critical trade policy priority is to reduce and eliminate non -tariff barriers to our 
agricultural exports, including by ensuring that sanitary and phytosanitary measures are based on 
science and risk. A number of EU SPS measures are not supported by the scientific opinio ns of EU 
institutions, and are defended on grounds other than demonstrated risks to human or animal 
health or the environment. Given the EU's importance in the global trading system, both as a 
commercial power and as a supporter of a rules -based system for  regulating trade, we are 
concerned about the proliferation of trade restrictions that are based on factors other than the 
objective criteria offered by scientific assessments of risk, as required under the WTO SPS 
Agreement.  
4.72.  Other EU non -tariff measures c ontinue to pose significant barriers to U.S. manufactured 
exports. As we regularly note in the WTO TBT Committee, the United States has broad concerns 
about EU policies and procedures to develop and implement technical regulations, standards, and 
conformit y assessment procedures, as well as concerns about specific measures that affect U.S. 
exporters in a wide range of sectors, including chemicals and wine.  We also continue to be 
concerned about EU policies that generate barriers to U.S. trade in third coun tries, such as 
requiring certain EU trading partners to automatically protect EU geographical indications without 
adequate consideration of prior trademark rights and generic terms and to eliminate standards 
that other countries rely on in selling products  in those markets, or making technical assistance 
contingent upon the elimination of such standards.  
4.73.  While we are encouraged that the EU has begun taking steps to reform its fisheries 
subsidies policies, we urge the EU to increase transparency and continue  its efforts to reduce 
subsidies to its fishing fleet, which may contribute to excess capacity and depletion of fish stocks.  
4.74.  Finally, a word about our engagement with the EU here in the WTO. We deeply value the 
exceptional maturity of the U.S. -EU dialogue on all matters affecting the work of the WTO. We 
frequently disagree on big and small issues, including questions of strategy, tactics, individual 
substantive issues, and even on important systemic issues such as those surrounding the WTO's 
dispute settlem ent functions. Just as often, we see eye -to-eye. And in all instances, we are able to 
engage with each other in a respectful, straightforward, and good -humoured manner. The United 
States will continue to place great value on this aspect of our trade relati onship with the EU as we 
work to make the WTO work better for all Members in the future.  
4.75.  In closing, the United States welcomes this opportunity to review EU trade policies and is 
hopeful that our exchanges will help us identify ways that those policies ca n help increase the 
benefits of our trade with the EU.  
UKRAINE  
4.76.  Ukraine advances but still faces severe challenges on the path toward greater economic 
integration with the EU. Despite all, we have undertaken major reforms, and we truly appreciate 
the suppor t and recognition of our efforts and improvements by the EU, the closest partner of 
Ukraine.   
4.77.  At the bilateral level our countries have enjoyed strong trade, economic and technical 
partnership relations. Since 2014 and 2016 respectively, Ukraine and the E U countries are 
benefiting from the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA). It has comprehensive 
coverage, including trade in goods and services, and was concluded as part of the Association 
Agreement. We consider Ukraine –EU DCFTA as the most power ful instrument of support of the 
Ukrainian economy, offering the access to the vast European internal market to the Ukrainian 
producers. It is intended to provide substantial liberalization of trade and investment conditions 
and is leading to further impro vement of trade conditions and investment climate through greater 
convergence with EU trade -related laws and practice.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.78.  The DCFTA provides a framework for modernizing the trade relations and economic 
development by opening up markets and harmonizing laws, s tandards and regulations in various 
sectors. The DCFTA was successfully examined at the CRTA meeting on 30th of June.  
4.79.  The EU is Ukraine's largest trading partner and its role in foreign -economic relations of 
Ukraine has been constantly growing and it is th e only partner with whom the trade turnover was 
increasing last year. The share of EU trade in goods and services of Ukraine has exceeded 40% 
and has been growing.  
4.80.  In 2016, the trade turnover between Ukraine and the EU has increased by 8.1% and 
amounted t o US$30.6 billion. The exports of goods have risen by 3.7% (amounted to 
US$13.5  billion) and imports of goods by 11.8% (amounted to US$17.1 billion). Within 
January -March 2017 the total trade increased by 21.6%, export by 24.5%, imports by 19.2%.  
4.81.  EU accoun ted for 34% of Ukraine' s total exports and 41% of its imports (2015). EU -Ukraine 
trade in goods reached more than €20 billion. The main products imported by the EU from Ukraine 
are metals, minerals, agriculture, and machinery, and Ukraine imports mainly machinery, 
chemicals, veh icles, minerals and plastics from the EU.  
4.82.  Concerning trade in services, the EU's main export and import categories are transport and 
travel services, accounting respectively for 60% and 65% of its exports and imports. For Ukraine, 
its main export categori es are transports, telecommunication, IT services and manufacturing 
services, its main import categories are: transports, financial and business services.  
4.83.  The EU is the largest foreign investor and donor in Ukraine. Foreign direct investment (FDI) 
by the E U countries has steadily increased over the past decade. The EU's financial assistance is 
mainly aimed at supporting reforms and European integration of Ukraine.  
4.84.  Our country highly appreciates the partnership cooperation with the EU across the bodies of 
the World Trade Organization on different issues. Being strongly committed to the rule -based 
multilateral trading system, Ukraine highly welcomes the efforts of the EU and its contribution to 
further development of the system and trade liberalization and del ivering meaningful outcomes for 
MC11.  
4.85.  In particular, we would like to underline our appreciation to the principal approach of the EU 
countries to their import regime measures covering some import prohibitions and restrictions of 
goods not accompanied by a certificate of origin issued by the Ukrainian authorities, compliant 
with the relevant international decisions and commitments on the issue.   
4.86.  Within this TPR exercise, Ukraine has submitted a number of specific questions with the aim 
of speeding up an int egration to the EU value added chains, and is seeking clarification on a range 
of the following topics:  
 customs procedures and requirements,  
 tariff quotas and administration,  
 non-automatic import licensing procedure for ozone -depleting substances,  
 trade promotion organizations,  
 developments in the sugar industry,  
 operation and legal policy framework of National Trade Facilitation Committee,  
 Action Plan for improvement of forest governance,  
 the Export Helpdesk and the Market Access Database,  
 electron ic contracts and online consumer protection,  
 endocrine disruptors' regulation etc.  
4.87.  We would like to express our gratitude for the responses, which we are reviewing 
thoroughly.  
4.88.  Finally, I would like to manifest our deep appreciation to the EU delegation a nd especially to 
the team of the EU Mission to the WTO in Geneva for their great efforts in preparing this TPR and 
for the fruitful cooperation on the wide range of WTO issues.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.89.  We wish the European Union a successful TPR and look forward to further strengt hening our 
bilateral relations.  
ARGENTINA  
4.90.  La UE, como bloque, constituye nuestro segundo socio comercial, con una participación del 
16% en el comercio total argentino en 2016. Sin embargo, el comercio con la UE ha ido 
reduciendo su participación relativa e n el comercio exterior argentino, tanto en términos de 
exportaciones como de importaciones. A partir del 2012, el saldo fue afectado por la disminución 
de los precios de las "commodities" y minerales, así como por la aplicación de derechos 
antidumping a la s exportaciones argentinas de biodiesel, que implicaron el cierre del mercado de 
la UE para este producto.  
4.91.  El 88% de nuestras exportaciones al mercado europeo están originadas en el sector agrícola 
y agroindustrial (60% son manufacturas de origen agropecua rio y 28% productos primarios). Es 
por ello fundamental para el comercio argentino que las medidas que la UE adopte en este sector 
sean consistentes con las normas de la OMC.  
4.92.  La UE como bloque es el principal inversor extranjero en la Argentina. En 2015, el stock de 
inversión fue de 35 mil millones de dólares EE.UU. Somos optimistas respecto a la posibilidad de 
que las inversiones europeas en la Argentina retomen un camino de crecimiento. La 
implementación de nuevas políticas nacionales que apuntan a la at racción de inversiones y la 
mejora que se viene consolidando en el último tiempo respecto al clima de negocios en la 
Argentina contribuirán a dicho objetivo.  
4.93.  La UE y la Argentina comparten el objetivo de un comercio basado en valores, que 
promueva el desa rrollo sostenible, libre, justo y cimentado en reglas claras. Sabemos que tenemos 
la potencialidad de incrementar nuestras relaciones comerciales, tomando en cuenta una mayor 
complementariedad, en productos agropecuarios, pesqueros e industriales.  
4.94.  Estamos  seguros que las tareas en curso para avanzar hacia la concreción de un Acuerdo de 
Asociación Económica entre el Mercado Común del Sur (MERCOSUR) y la Unión Europea tendrán 
un resultado positivo en un futuro cercano. El Acuerdo permitirá ampliar los mercad os, generando 
economías de escala y cadenas globales de valor, impulsando la competitividad, creando nuevos 
puestos de trabajo, riqueza y oportunidades. Resulta importante destacar que, en un contexto en 
que hay algunos llamados al proteccionismo y al unil ateralismo, dos bloques económicos 
importantes apuestan a la integración de sus cadenas productivas.  
4.95.  No quisiéramos dejar de mencionar que vemos con preocupación que los aranceles de los 
productos agrícolas en la UE, que promedian el 14,1%, siguen siendo m ás elevados que los de los 
productos no agrícolas, con un promedio del 4,3%.  
4.96.  También seguimos con atención algunos desarrollos en la Unión Europea vinculados a 
cuestiones no arancelarias. En particular, consideramos que las propuestas legislativas de la 
Comisión Europea relativas a identificación de sustancias con propiedades de disrupción endocrina 
deben ser consistentes con los Acuerdos de la OMC. En el marco de la creciente demanda de 
alimentos y el desafío de la seguridad alimentaria, observamos con pr eocupación los desarrollos en 
la UE sobre Organismos Genéticamente Modificados. Al mismo tiempo, la implementación 
normativa de cuestiones relacionadas con la huella ambiental y el comercio de vinos e indicaciones 
geográficas no deberían resultar en obstác ulos innecesarios al comercio.  
4.97.  Resulta importante destacar el rol activo de la Unión Europea en la OMC, su contribución 
relevante al sistema comercial multilateral y en particular de cara a la 11ª Conferencia Ministerial 
de Buenos Aires.  
4.98.  En este contexto,  destacamos la necesidad de avanzar en las negociaciones agrícolas 
pendientes, centralmente en lo referido a ayuda interna. Asimismo, compartimos con la Unión 
Europea los esfuerzos para hacer progresar las negociaciones sobre las disciplinas relativas a la s 
subvenciones a la pesca. Al igual que la UE, entendemos la necesidad que la OMC aborde de 
manera sistemática la problemática de las Micro, Pequeñas y Medianas Empresas como así WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  también se avancen en las discusiones referidas a comercio electrónico y faci litación de 
inversiones.  
4.99.  Finalizando, y al tiempo de reiterar nuestro reconocimiento por esta nueva oportunidad de 
intercambiar opiniones y consideraciones sobre las políticas y prácticas comerciales de la UE, no 
querríamos dejar de resaltar nuevamente la  importancia de este ejercicio de transparencia en 
todos sus aspectos y desear a las autoridades de la UE la exitosa conclusión de este duodécimo 
examen de sus políticas comerciales.  
BRAZIL  
4.100.   The EU is a staunch supporter of multilateralism. This is much ap preciated. We value the 
EU's commitment to a positive outcome in the MC -11.  
4.101.   Today, the opportunity to review its trade policies highlights the relevance of the WTO's 
monitoring pillar.  
4.102.   At the outset, Brazil would like to mention some specific concerns wit h regard to the EU's 
trade policies. Agriculture, in particular, remains an exception to its overall openness.  
4.103.   The average tariff rate on agricultural goods, at 14.1%, is more than three times higher 
than that for manufactures, with a tariff peak of almos t 700% and a number of tariff peaks above 
100%. Tariff escalation, specific duties, and 124 TRQs with high out -of-quota tariffs also continue 
to be significant import barriers. Products such as dairy, sugar, ethanol and meat are particularly 
protected. On a positive note, the abolition of milk quotas in 2015 and the sugar reform in the 
near future will bring more market orientation to both sectors.  
4.104.   Despite the positive direction of successive reforms of the Common Agricultural Policy, 
domestic support remai ns high. PSE, as measured by the OECD, stood within the range of 18 -20% 
in the period under review. Price support measures almost doubled, according to the Secretariat's 
report, from €11 billion in 2011 to €21 billion in 2015.  
4.105.   Even after a careful reading of the Secretariat's report, forming a clear picture of the 
complex array of agricultural support policies of the EU and its Member States remains extremely 
challenging. We also note that the last EU DS notification to the WTO covers the marketing year 
2013/14. In light of our shared commitment to the importance of transparency in the multilateral 
trade system, we encourage the EU to promptly notify more recent years.  
4.106.   In SPS and TBT, the EU has in some specific cases adopted measures that are more trade 
restrictive than necessary, without due consideration, in our view, to international standards and 
scientific justification. Concerns include the registration of pesticides, the definition of maximum 
level of chemical residues and the approval of GMOs, as we ll as the uncertainties inherent to the 
proposed "hazard" approach for endocrine disruptors. The organic labelling of maté, a traditional 
staple of Southern Brazil, has also been denied without clear reasons.  
4.107.   We also encourage the EU to ensure that Brexit negotiations do not entail negative impacts 
to third parties and to the multilateral trading system.  
4.108.   The EU is Brazil's largest trade partner, first origin of our imports and second export 
market. After peaking at around US$100 billion/year between 2011 an d 2013, our bilateral trade 
declined to US$70.6 billion in 2015, with an additional slight fall in 2016. With the economic 
recovery underway in Brazil, we expect our bilateral trade to regain momentum. Diversification of 
our exports, still concentrated on basic products, remains a priority for Brazil.  
4.109.   FDI is a crucial component of our bilateral relations. The EU is the major investor in Brazil, 
with a stock of €329.9 billion in 2015. In the opposite direction, the stock of Brazilian FDI in the EU 
reached €1 27.6 billion in that same year. Brazil is the fifth largest investor in the EU. These figures 
speak for themselves.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.110.   Bilateral ties go much beyond trade and investment. This year, we celebrate the 10th 
anniversary of the Brazil -EU Strategic Partnership. Yes terday, we issued a joint statement to 
celebrate this date.  
4.111.   This partnership is set to grow even deeper as we accelerate the negotiations of an 
Association Agreement between MERCOSUR and the EU. Our teams are now meeting in Brussels, 
as we speak. The concl usion of the Association Agreement will provide a boost to the integration of 
our two regions.  
4.112.   Let me conclude by thanking the EU delegation for the answers to Brazil's questions, which 
were forwarded to capital for examination and follow -up. We wish the EU a most successful Trade 
Policy Review.  
INDONESIA  
4.113.   Indonesia associates itself with the ASEAN statement made by the Permanent 
Representative of Singapore.  
4.114.   For many years, the EU has played significant roles in the multilateral trading system. We 
also ackn owledge that the EU - through the EU new trade and investment policy "Trade for All" - 
continuously advances its trade and investment agenda with partners around the world. Currently, 
Indonesia and the EU are at the second round of negotiation of the Indones ia-European Union 
Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, also known as IEU -CEPA. We look forward to 
advancing our work in this partnership.  
4.115.   In light of the trade policy review which is commencing today, we note with positivity that 
the EU functions as a single economy with common trade policies, including import duties, import 
and export procedures, and rules on investment. We believe that this arrangement has facilitated 
access to the EU market. However, we also note that in some cases, EU requireme nts may add to 
the cost of doing business and create non -tariff barriers. Therefore, we hope that, through this 
Trade Policy Review, those issues can be addressed.  
4.116.   The EU has constantly become one of Indonesia's most important trading partners for 
many yea rs. There are rooms for improvement in our trade and investment relations. With 
advancement in the IEU -CEPA negotiations, we foresee our bilateral economic relations to reach its 
true potential - beyond the current trade performance at US$25.2 billion (whic h is a reduction of 
3.4% from the previous year).  
4.117.   Indonesian export to EU in 2016 was recorded at US$14.5 billion or a 2% decrease from 
the previous year, with the trend during the period of 2012 -2016 declined by 5.6%. Indonesia 
main export destinations in  the EU are the Netherlands, Germany, Italy and Spain.  
4.118.   Meanwhile, Indonesian imports from the EU in 2016 was recorded at US$10.7 billion or a 
5.3% decrease from the previous year, with the trend during the period of 2012 -2016 declined by 
7.2%.  
4.119.   Looking at o ur investment relation, EU's total investment in Indonesia was recorded at 
US$2.6 billion in 2016. The investment was allocated in over 2800 projects. We highly appreciate 
the EU's contribution to the increase of foreign investment, as well as to the devel opment of 
infrastructure and industry in Indonesia.  
4.120.   Highlighting the trade relations between the two countries, the EU is the second largest 
market for Indonesia's palm oil export, amounting 3.5 million MT, valuing for US$2.4 billion in 
2015. In this case,  Indonesia is the largest palm oil supplier for the EU. Indonesia, however, also 
takes note of the growing impediments towards Indonesia's palm oil export to the EU.  
4.121.   Additionally, Indonesia registers its great concerns on the EU Parliament Resolution on 
Palm Oil and Deforestation and Rainforest that was approved in April 2017. We strongly encourage 
that EU takes into account the importance of palm oil to Indonesia, and acknowledges the efforts 
of Government of Indonesia in implanting and promoting the susta inability of palm oil.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.122.   In this regard, we have submitted a number of written questions related to our concerns 
on the EU trade and trade related policies and practices. We thank the EU for the responses 
provided to these advanced questions. We look forward  to a follow -up communications with the 
EU, to seek further clarification to the answers provided.  
4.123.   Finally, we would like to conclude our remarks by expressing, once again, our profound 
appreciation to the delegation of the European Union, for their hard w ork. Our appreciation also 
goes to Ambassador Marc Vanheukelen, Head of the European Union Permanent Mission to the 
WTO. Indonesia wishes the EU every success in its thirteenth Trade Policy Review.  
NORWAY  
4.124.   These are challenging times in global trade. Protec tionism and anti -trade sentiments are 
on the rise. The benefits of trade need to be more widely shared. More inclusive and job creating 
international trade must thus be given priority.  
4.125.   An unwavering commitment to the WTO is more important than ever, which is why the 
EU's strong support of the Multilateral Trading System and its further development is crucial. We 
appreciate the engagement and leadership of the EU in the WTO, even if we do not always agree 
on substance, and we appreciate the EU's efforts to m ake the 11th WTO Ministerial Conference a 
success.  
4.126.   Norway welcomes the active participation of the EU in the negotiations on fisheries 
subsidies, with the objective to implement Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14.6 in the WTO.  
4.127.   As others have highlighte d today, agriculture is a key issue in the WTO. Norway commends 
the EU for contributing actively to reaching consensus at MC10 on phasing out export subsidies. 
We take note of the EU's engagement in negotiating new disciplines on trade distorting domestic 
support, but ask the EU to consider carefully whether a "one size fits all" solution based on support 
in percentage of the value of production is a doable outcome at MC11.  
4.128.   Norway and the EU have shared interest in liberalization of trade in services. Henc e, a 
continued future cooperation on services is most welcome. We appreciate the EU's collaboration on 
a variety of services issues and sectors, particularly on maritime transport services as well as the 
EU's active engagement in the negotiations on a Trad e in Services Agreement (TiSA).  
4.129.   We also take this opportunity to commend the EU for its longstanding engagement on 
trade and environment in the WTO. Like the EU, Norway hopes to finalize the negotiations on an 
environmental goods agreement (EGA) as soon a s possible.  
4.130.   The expansion of the digital economy could clearly offer new opportunities to promote 
inclusive economic growth, as mentioned in the EU's report, and should be an area for future 
work, as the digital economy can connect rural and urban communi ties and facilitate the 
participation of developing countries, women and micro enterprises in the global economy.  
4.131.   Norway appreciates the active role the EU plays in international trade, in the WTO and 
outside. The EU's ambitious "progressive" and sometime s innovative trade agenda is helpful in 
trying to move the trade debate forward. The EU's "trade for all" strategy is but one example.  
4.132.   The EU is Norway's most important trading partner while Norway is the EU's 5th most 
important import partner. Around 80% (i.e. 88 billion NOK) of Norwegian trade in goods is 
destined for the EU, and around 2/3 of our imports come from the EU. There is a strong 
interdependence between Norway and the EU when it comes to trade. The EEA Agreement ensures 
that we share a common s et of rules with our most important trading partners, and this 
agreement is the cornerstone of Norway's economic relationship with the EU.  
4.133.   Norway and the EU share the goals and ambitions of facilitating sustainable growth in both 
new and traditional ocean  industries, such as maritime, petroleum and seafood. We maintain close 
contact on maritime and ocean -related matters, and cooperate at many levels, bilaterally, 
regionally as well as globally.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.134.   Fisheries is topic of particular interest to Norway. Except fo r oil and gas, fish is the single 
largest export item from Norway to the EU. With an average tariff of around 11% for fish and fish 
products, tariff escalation, broad use of bilateral TRQs, autonomous quotas and end -user 
requirements, there is room for imp rovements in the EU's trade regime for seafood.  
4.135.   Norway and the EU have mutual interests in the International Working Group concerning a 
possible agreement on export credits.  Norway appreciates the EU's efforts and work in the 
steering committee of the IW G. It is of great importance to us that competition among exporters is 
based on the quality and price of the offered goods and services, rather than on the most 
favourable financial terms and conditions.  
4.136.   The EU is an important and active player on the mul tilateral stage and an important 
trading partner for most of us, as we have heard today. Given the changing realities in trade 
politics, trade policy reviews are even more important than before. We trust that this review will 
be useful, both for the EU and  for its trading partners.  
MÉXICO  
4.137.   La Unión Europea (UE) es un importante aliado de México, con quien contamos con un 
tratado de libre comercio desde el año 2000, el cual se encuentra en proceso de modernización.  
4.138.   La UE es el segundo destino de las exportaci ones de México y es nuestra tercera fuente de 
importaciones de mercancías.  
4.139.   Juntos, México y la UE hemos visto con preocupación el actual ascenso del proteccionismo 
alrededor del mundo. Como socios que comparten una visión, defendemos la cooperación global y 
abierta, así como un fuerte compromiso a favor del sistema multilateral de comercio.  
4.140.   Como otras delegaciones, México está alerta respecto al proceso del Brexit y las 
implicaciones económicas, jurídicas e institucionales de esta situación.  
4.141.   Respecto a la facilitación del comercio, desde el año 2011 México estableció la ventanilla 
única de comercio exterior. Entendemos que esto no es una tarea sencilla, más aún en un caso 
como el de la UE, pues no se tiene una autoridad aduanera común y están involucrados v arios 
países. Sin embargo, esperemos que el proceso para la implementación de la ventanilla única en la 
UE continúe hasta tenerlo plenamente operativo. La UE indica que en el año 2020 estará 
disponible la infraestructura, por lo que esperemos tener informa ción sobre la fecha en la que se 
tendrá en plena operación.  
4.142.   En cuanto a los servicios, éstos contribuyen con más del 70% del PIB y el empleo de la UE. 
Encomiamos el proceso regulatorio que se estado realizando para crear un mercado único digital. 
Un mejor uso y acceso a las tecnologías digitales, un marco regulatorio adecuado para impulsar el 
uso de las redes digitales y el comercio electrónico, definidamente redundarán en la generación de 
más oportunidades para las empresas que inician sus actividades en l a economía digital, así como 
las que ya están operando.  
4.143.   En este sentido, las disposiciones legislativas aprobadas este año constituyen pasos 
importantes para la consolidación del mercado único digital. Destacamos las disposiciones:  
 para evitar el bloqueo geográfico injustificado;  
 para asegurar que los consumidores puedan tener acceso a los servicios y productos en 
línea de los países de la UE sin cargas adicionales;  
 para mejorar la transparencia en los precios de los servicios de paquetería y su 
asequibi lidad;  
 para fomentar la cooperación entre las agencias que protegen los derechos los 
consumidores, la adopción de normas de derecho de autor y las relativas a la privacidad; y  
 finalmente, la revisión de las normas de telecomunicaciones sobre la conectivi dad y el 
acceso a internet, constituyen pasos importantes para la consolidación del mercado único 
digital.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.144.   También destacan las reformas al marco regulatorio comunitario aplicable al transporte 
marítimo y por ferrocarril. Respecto al primero, encomiamos l a aprobación de nuevas reglas 
comunitarias aplicables a la prestación de los servicios portuarios y medidas que impulsan la 
transparencia financiera, las cuales serán aplicables a 319 puertos.   
4.145.   En materia de inversión, la UE ha emprendido un proceso de re forma al sistema de 
solución de diferencias inversionista -Estado. En el informe de la Secretaría, se describe que es un 
nuevo enfoque a fin de garantizar procesos justos e imparciales. Considerando que la mitad de 
todos los acuerdos internacionales de inve rsión en el mundo los han firmado los Estados miembros 
y la UE, resulta, aunque un poco tarde, relevante que la UE revise su política en la materia. 
Debemos señalar, no obstante, que mantener los 1,200 acuerdos de inversión de la UE sin duda 
genera una sit uación que no contribuye a la seguridad y previsibilidad, a diferencia de inversión un 
elemento crucial del éxito de la OMC consiste en la existencia de un solo conjunto de reglas, los 
acuerdos abarcados.  
4.146.   En cuanto a las diferencias en la OMC, el papel de  la Unión Europea es central. Ocupa el 
2º lugar de participación en las 525 diferencias que se han iniciado en el marco de esta 
Organización. Justamente por ello ha sido lamentable que la UE no haya apoyado el inicio del 
proceso para ocupar la vacante que se produjo a partir del 1º de julio en el Órgano de Apelación y 
que ahora lo deja con 6 miembros.  
4.147.   La OMC es un "bien público" y corresponde a todos los Miembros cuidarla máxime si se 
trata de un elemento que afecta el funcionamiento de la "joya de la coro na". 
AUSTRALIA  
4.148.   Like many WTO Members, the scale of Australia's trade and investment relationship with 
the EU gives us a major stake in the application of trade and industry policies in the EU. We 
acknowledge the reform measures the EU has adopted since the  last Trade Policy Review in 2015, 
especially in the face of a difficult geopolitical environment, and encourage the EU to continue to 
open its market to support global economic growth.   
4.149.   The EU as a bloc constitutes Australia's largest source of foreign i nvestment and second 
largest trading partner – with total two -way trade of more than $A98 billion in 2016. Australia is 
also a significant market for the EU; its 15th largest merchandise export market and 7th largest 
services market.  
4.150.   Australia and the EU s hare a commitment to a strong and effective rules -based global 
trading system and a willingness to work with others to achieve broad -based, tangible outcomes 
through the WTO. Since the EU's last Review, Australia has continued to work closely with the EU 
to support the multilateral trading system. The EU provided strong leadership on the 
implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and we look forward to continuing to 
work with the EU to ensure that the full benefits of the TFA can be realized b y the entire WTO 
membership.  
4.151.   We were also pleased to work closely with the EU on the successful expansion of the 
Information Technology Agreement and thank the EU for its timely implementation of its 
obligations. We welcome our partnership with the EU in t he Environmental Goods Agreement 
negotiations as we work towards our shared goal of liberalizing trade in environmental goods to 
help tackle the world's environmental challenges.  
4.152.   Australia is working closely with the EU and other Members to take forward ne gotiations on 
the plurilateral Trade in Services Agreement (TISA). Australia supports a high -ambition outcome, 
and we look forward to continuing to work with the EU towards a successful conclusion to the 
negotiations. We note the EU's commitment to reform and liberalization of the services sector, and 
will explore further which policy initiatives are being undertaken to: support mobility of service 
providers; facilitate mutual recognition of professional qualifications; and promote the 
development and adopt ion of services standards to facilitate trade in services.  
4.153.   We welcome improvements to the EU's internal market outlined in the Single Market 
Strategy and the Digital Single Market initiative to the extent that these deliver positive impacts WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  for the global trading system. We note the introduction of the new Union Customs Code in May 
2016, which should allow for further streamlining of customs and related procedures. We'll be 
interested to hear more about the sector specific laws proposed or recently adopted for financial 
services, transport, telecommunications and postal services, and professional services reform. We 
look forward to seeing how further integration in the single market will also benefit the EU's trade 
with other WTO members.  
4.154.   As a long term crit ic of the trade impacts of the Common Agricultural Policy, Australia has 
been pleased to note the continuing trend toward more market -based policies. We are pleased that 
the EU has continued its policy of not issuing export refund grants since July 2013 an d that no 
products were added to public intervention stocks in the period since its last TPR, but note that the 
public intervention for dairy products has been extended four times since the Russian ban on 
agricultural products was introduced in 2014. We we lcome the general simplification of the public 
intervention regime over the period since the last review, and believe the EU would show genuine 
global leadership by committing to the permanent elimination of these measures. We welcome the 
EU decision to en d the sugar quota system later this year and hope that this will lead to new 
opportunities for Australian sugar producers seeking to export to EU markets. We note Member 
States' continuing reliance on coupled support, and will be seeking information about the transition 
away from such support.  
4.155.   Procedures for the application for registration of GIs originating in the EU have been 
described in previous reports. Australia will wish to explore in more detail the key differences 
between the national objections p rocedures of Member States and the objections procedures at 
the EU level.  
4.156.   We understand the changes to the composition of the EU in the forthcoming period may 
have implications for the EU's existing WTO schedules of commitments. As an interested WTO 
Member  that would be affected by any changes, Australia expects that any process to seek 
adjustments to EU schedules will be open and transparent, and conducted in accordance with 
established WTO rules and procedures. We look forward to engaging in consultations  with the EU 
on this at the appropriate time.  
4.157.   We note both the EU and Australia are demonstrating commitment to open trade and 
investment, by pursuing ambitious, forward agendas of free trade agreement negotiations. Given 
the size of the bilateral trade an d investment relationship, the Australian Government looks 
forward to commencing negotiation of a comprehensive and ambitious Australia -EU FTA.  
4.158.   Australia looks forward to continuing to work closely with the EU. In the lead up to MC11, 
we are confident that  the EU will show continued engagement and leadership in order to secure 
valuable outcomes for all Members.  
4.159.   I would like to thank the European Union for its detailed replies to our written questions. 
We are reviewing these carefully.   
4.160.   Australia wishes the  European Union a successful and constructive Trade Policy Review.  
REPUBLIC  OF MOLDOVA  
4.161.   The Republic of Moldova appreciates the EU's constructive role in the WTO and its active 
participation in the work of this Organization, as well as the EU's leadership t hrough the numerous 
initiatives aimed at making progress on the highly important issues discussed in the WTO bodies.  
4.162.   Since the last Trade Policy Review, the EU economy continued to grow, although at a 
moderate annual rate of 2.2% in 2015, and at different  paces from one Member to another. In the 
context of current global challenges, we believe the new trade and investment policy issued by the 
European Commission in 2015 will support and strengthen this growth in an inclusive and 
responsible manner, by tack ling new economic realities such as trade in services, global value 
chains, e -commerce and SMEs.  
4.163.   We congratulate the EU for its pioneering role undertaken in the expansion of the ITA 
Agreement and the ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement in Oct ober 2015, shortly after WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  its previous Trade Policy Review. In this area, the new Union Customs Code begins a new era of 
electronic customs clearance and harmonized IT processes, simplifying and modernizing customs 
procedures.  
4.164.   On the intellectual property s ide, we commend the adoption of the Digital Single Market 
Strategy for Europe, aimed at further modernizing the legal framework for copyright protection 
and enforcement, in particular in the online environment. We are also looking forward to analysing 
in m ore detail the new legislative and non -legislative actions presented by the European 
Commission in this area, as well as the project of extension of geographical indications protection 
to non -agricultural products. We thank the EU for the answers provided to our advance questions 
on these topics.  
4.165.   The Republic of Moldova and the EU enjoy a special relationship due to our historic, 
cultural and geographic proximity. Indeed, as a neighbouring country of the EU, the Republic of 
Moldova has a unique opportunity of connecting to the EU as the world's largest trading block and 
benefiting from the opportunities offered by an open economy with transparent rules and 
regulations.  
4.166.   Our trade relationship is governed by the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement, 
in full effect since July 2016, which is oriented to the removal of import and export duties on the 
trade in goods, as well as obstacles to trade in services and stimulating better access for 
companies to the EU market. Significant efforts have been made by t he Moldovan authorities, with 
the EU support, regarding the promotion and implementation of the EU principles, regulations and 
standards in the Moldovan legal and institutional framework.  
4.167.   During the first half of the current year, Moldovan exports to the E U represented 63.5% of 
total exports, with an increase of 26.3% compared to the same period in 2016. A similar increase 
of 23.3% has been registered for the imports of European products to the Republic of Moldova.  
4.168.   Our main trading partners from the EU are  Romania, Italy, United Kingdom, Germany, 
France, Poland and Netherlands.  
4.169.   As of January 2016, there are 1360 exporting companies to the EU. The DCFTA 
implementation brought changes in the structure of exports: in the top positions being placed the 
industr ial goods, covering over 65% of all exported goods. This is an outstanding contrast to 
Moldova's export of primary and resource -based products in earlier years.  
4.170.   The EU is also the main investor for Moldova, having provided in 2015 over 52% of the 
total FDI  into the country.  
4.171.   On the Trade Facilitation side, Moldovan authorities work closely with the EU. Some recent 
developments include the creation of the Authorized Economic Operator at all crossing points of 
the border and the mechanism of approved exporters  to facilitate the export of "preferential origin" 
from Moldova. The European Union Border Mission is another important instrument in EU –Moldova 
customs cooperation, assisting in the creation of the legal framework, institutional infrastructure 
and adminis trative capacity to implement customs and trade facilitation rules.  
4.172.   There are certainly a lot of valuable aspects in our trade relationship with the EU that I 
could refer to today. But perhaps the most important aspect to be emphasized here is that it 
allows us see the WTO rules applied in practice and our commitments undertaken at the 
international level fully respected, as it is explicitly stated in the preamble of the Moldova -EU 
Association Agreement.  
4.173.   Moldova looks forward to strengthen our cooperation  with the European Union, within the 
WTO in order to advance the work undertaken in its various bodies. And Moldova is ready to share 
our trade relations experience.  
4.174.   The Republic of Moldova is confident that the 13th exercise of the trade policy review wil l 
help the European Union assess the impact of its trade and economic policies on sustainable and 
robust trade growth to the benefit of the EU itself, as well as of the world economy.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.175.   We look forward to continue further strengthening our bilateral relation s with the European 
Union and we wish to the European Delegation the utmost success during this trade policy review 
cycle.  
RUSSIAN  FEDERATION  
4.176.   The EU is one of the biggest trading blocks in the world, and its trade policy influence, both 
positive and negati ve, on global markets cannot be underestimated. Russia therefore commends 
the EU on having ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement in October 2015. We also expect that 
the EU will eliminate agricultural export subsidies from its WTO schedule of commitmen ts, in line 
with the 2015 Nairobi Decision. Being one of the 16 WTO Members with export subsidies 
entitlements, this would be a significant contribution towards the promotion of open and fair trade.  
4.177.   The European Union remains Russia's largest trading part ner and an important source of 
foreign direct investment. And that – despite an increased number of contentious issues between 
the EU and the Russian Federation. The past two years saw a continued deterioration of trade 
conditions for Russia's exporters in  the European markets. Not only did old problems aggravate – 
such as the so -called Third Energy Package, REACH directive, restrictions on trade in low -enriched 
uranium – but also other issues kept piling up without proper consideration.  
4.178.   We take note of the  replies of the EU to most of our advanced written questions. However, 
I would like to draw the attention of the delegation from the Brussels to a number of issues that 
lack sufficient justification and need further clarifications. To share with you just o ne case, in our 
written questions we have expressed our concern regarding one of the EU Member's Law on the 
protectionist measures against, I quote, "unsafe third -country nuclear power plants". We sought 
clarification from the EU regarding the justificatio n for such measure, as well as its compliance 
with the WTO rules and regulations. We were disappointed with the EU's uninformative and 
superficial reply which did not contain any specific reasons or explanation concerning this issue.  
4.179.   We also have a number of serious concerns with regards to certain EU's trade policies. 
Because of time constraints I will limit my intervention with just some.  
4.180.   First, we are strongly concerned with the EU's continued opposition to the "North 
Stream  2" project and the Brussel's move to apply the so -called Third energy package to this 
offshore pipeline. This is particularly surprising after the confirmation by the European Commission 
earlier this year that the provisions of the Package were not applicable to offshore pipelines suc h 
as "North Stream 2". This confirmation actually followed the Commission's legal service opinion 
that came to the same conclusion.  
4.181.   The second area of concern is the introduction of temporary autonomous measures for 
Ukraine supplementary to trade concessio ns available under the Association Agreement. The 
measure in question consists in additional lowering or abolition of duties for certain tariff lines for 
the country, as well as expansion of tariff quotas for a number of agricultural goods. Because of 
systemic concerns, we would like to get further information from the EU regarding compliance of 
such measures with the MFN principle.  
4.182.   Third, Russia has persistently raised concerns about the EU's import licensing procedures 
in respect of iron and steel product s within different WTO committees and bodies. We believe that 
the lack of legislation at the supranational level creates the ground for unjustified actions of 
competent authorities of the EU Member States, which results in disruption of the ordinary course  
of trade. Moreover, such actions by the EU Member States lead to confusion among the importers, 
as they can no longer be certain whether the documents submitted to the competent authority of 
one EU Member State will be sufficient for the next time or when  importing to a different Member 
State.  
4.183.   Fourth, we would like to seek clarifications in respect of EU's responses to Russia's written 
questions regarding the proposed changes in calculation of normal value determination in the 
course of anti -dumping inves tigations. These questions were posed earlier within the Anti -
Dumping Committee. The EU limited itself to the remark that the proposal is subject to the 
ordinary legislative procedure. However, we expected a more detailed answer. For the sake of WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  transparen cy, we would like to know which Committees of the European Parliament will be 
considering the proposal.  
4.184.   Fifth, the EU persists in practicing trade remedies that are highly questionable in terms of 
their compliance with the WTO rules and principles. These include, inter alia, cost -adjustment 
methodologies for the calculation of dumping margins in anti -dumping investigations and reviews. 
Moreover, we see that anti -dumping and countervailing regulations become more stringent. In 
particular, the European Commi ssion plans to grant its investigating authority the right to ignore 
domestic prices and costs existing in the exporting country in cases of a "significant market 
distortion", such as state interference in domestic markets. However, the criteria of market 
distortions are highly ambiguous and leave much space for abuse. Therefore, in our understanding 
this proposal authorizes practices that are inconsistent with the provisions of the GATT. We would 
like to urge the EU to abstain from adoption of the amendmen t and we will continue to keep a 
close eye on the evolution of the EU's anti -dumping legislation.  
4.185.   Finally, let me mention Brexit and its influence on the EU trade policy. This is an 
unprecedented challenge for the EU, as it may require revision of its tar iff and anti -dumping 
regulation, agriculture subsidy policy, import quota system etc. We believe many delegations 
would appreciate further indications as to when the EU is planning to launch consultations with the 
WTO members on these issues.  
4.186.   Despite the n umber of contentious issues between Russia and the EU, we are ready for a 
constructive dialogue that would allow us to minimize the number of trade concerns between us. 
We hope that in future the number of outstanding issues in our bilateral trade does not  increase.  
MONTENEGRO  
4.187.   At the outset, Montenegro wishes to express its close association with the European Union 
and the European Project. In five years of negotiations with the EU, we positioned ourselves as the 
frontrunner of the integration process in th e region by opening 28 and provisionally closing three 
chapters. By doing so we have substantially strengthened the rule of law, economic governance 
and reformed our public sector, aware that additional efforts must be invested in this regards.  
4.188.   The Europe an Union is home to a total population of 508 million people with an exports 
and imports of goods valued €3,518 billion and services at €1,517 billion. The European Union is 
key to the economic success and social development of many States – and Montenegro  looks 
forward to continuing – and building on – its positive relationship with the European Union for 
years to come.  
4.189.   Montenegro wishes to draw attention to the growth statistics of the European Union, 
despite challenges that have occurred over the last t rade review period. In this regard, 
Montenegro notes that in 2016, GDP was around 1.8% compared with 2.2% in 2015, and, based 
on recent forecast, growth is expected to continue at a similar rate in the near future. With 
political challenges such as Brexit negotiations commencing in the past few weeks, Montenegro 
hopes that the European Union can continue to deliver strong growth and ensure the positive 
development of its citizens.  
4.190.   Of particular interest to Montenegro is the European Union's new strategy "T rade for all - 
Towards a more responsible trade and investment policy" intended to ensure responsible 
management in supply chains, promote fair and ethical trade schemes and to promote and defend 
human rights. In this regard, Montenegro notes that the Europ ean Union's report states that the 
aim of this new policy is central to align trade policy with European values, that implementing 
private sustainability schemes can be beneficial for sustainable development, and that human 
rights considerations are becomi ng an increasing important part of the EU's bilateral free trade 
agreements. Montenegro is firmly convinced that trade and investment can be used to further 
important society values and develop economies in a positive way. In the 21st Century, such aims 
are important if the lives of all are to be improved.  
4.191.   Montenegro draws attention to the work that has been completed in the financial sector in 
the EU since the financial crisis. In this regard, Montenegro notes that in 2015 a new regulation on 
securities f inancing transactions was adopted to improve transparency, and identify and quantify WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  risks; and that in 2017, a new regulation was adopted that is intended to improve the liquidity 
profile and stability of money market funds domicile or sold in Europe. The se readjustments – and 
other developments that the Secretariat notes – to the financial sector are important if financial 
markets are to be sustainable moving forward. We, in Montenegro, are devoted to strengthening 
our financial services through accession  talks with the EU (under Chapter 9) and in that respect we 
continuously work to make improvements in banking sector, insurance sector and pension system, 
infrastructure of financial market, securities and independence of regulatory and monitoring bodies 
as well as building their administrative capacities.  
4.192.   Montenegro would like to commend EU for its proactive and constructive engagement in 
the WTO and its continued leadership in strengthening of the rule based multilateral trading 
system. WTO success in the  resent years has been increasingly connected with the effective 
contribution of the EU. Montenegro will continue its strong support for the current and new 
initiatives of the EU and other Member States towards success of the MC11 in December in Buenos 
Aires.  
4.193.   Finally, Montenegro is looking forward to continuing excellent relations with the European 
Union in Geneva and with impressive team of the EU Mission lead by H.E. Marc Vanheukelen. We 
wish the European Union every success in its thirteenth Trade Polic y Review.  
HONG  KONG,  CHINA  
4.194.   Hong Kong, China (HKC) and the EU have all along enjoyed a close and mutually beneficial 
economic relationship. Last year, the EU was our 2nd largest trading partner, while we ranked 5th 
among their trading partners in Asia.  
4.195.   We also have an annual Structured Dialogue to exchange views on trade and investment 
issues of interests to both sides.   
4.196.   Notwithstanding these bilateral conversations, we find it useful that the EU has made use 
of this review to update all WTO Members on its trade policies and initiatives. We note, for 
instance, that there is a new Single Market Strategy, which enables the EU to function more 
effectively as one trading bloc. We welcome also the 2015 "Trade for all" Communication, which 
explains clearly the EU' s overall trade strategy and negotiating agenda. The EU's transparency in 
its policy making process, including its ongoing negotiations on free trade agreements, allows 
other WTO Members to identify more easily potential areas for cooperation. HKC, for ins tance, 
would see us as having a common interest with the EU in reducing non -tariff barriers and 
enhancing market access.  
4.197.   Although this review covers only two years, there had been significant development during 
the period. One example is the new Union Cust oms Code. With the main provisions coming into 
force, a new era is opened for electronic customs clearance and harmonized IT processes. We 
hope the EU will continue its good efforts in simplifying customs procedures, and will lead by 
example in implementin g the Trade Facilitation Agreement.   
4.198.   Another notable achievement during this review period was the updating of the Blue Guide. 
It sets out the legislation, standards and conformity assessment applicable to non -food and 
non-agricultural products as they ma ke their way to the EU market. This is more than a factual 
update. It speaks for the EU's serious efforts to harmonise the practices of its member states, and 
we appreciate that.  
4.199.   We understand that the European Commission also plans to launch a Joint Initi ative on 
Standardization, so that the public and private sectors can work together to promote European 
and international standards, making it easier for industries to capitalise on rapidly developing 
technologies. HKC supports innovation, and sees merit in  having more transparent and common 
standards for this purpose.  
4.200.   On the Services side, a number of regulatory changes had been introduced, benefiting 
various sectors such as audio -visual; financial; maritime, air and rail transport. We encourage the 
EU to c ontinue with its reforms; to further open up its services markets and streamline the 
regulations.   WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.201.   At the moment, the EU is playing a very active and constructive role in WTO Services 
negotiations, in particular regarding domestic regulations. We believe that HKC and the EU share 
common objectives in this regard, and can work together for a meaningful outcome.  
4.202.   Indeed, we have been successful partners before, producing, for instance, at the 10th 
Ministerial Conference a plurilateral Information Technology A greement, the benefits of which are 
now shared by all WTO Members by virtue of the MFN principle. As we just celebrated the 20th 
Anniversary of the first ITA last week, we would also like to take this opportunity to commend the 
EU for its leadership and co ntributions during the negotiations, as well as its prompt 
implementation of the expanded Agreement.  
4.203.   Regarding anti -dumping and countervailing measures, new regulations published in the 
past two years served to consolidate existing ones. And the fact remai ns that, since the inception 
of the WTO, the EU has been a major user of these measures. Knowing full well that remedy 
investigations can carry significant trade stifling effects, we hope Members would think twice 
before initiating such proceedings; and if  they really have to resort to remedies, we urge them to 
refrain from repeated extensions of such measures.   
4.204.   One important area that saw little change during the review period is tariffs. The tariff 
structure and rates remained largely the same, with agri cultural products, in particular dairy 
products, continuing to receive high tariff protection. It is true that agricultural exports from least 
developed countries and many developing countries can already enter the EU at zero or reduced 
tariffs because of special initiatives and preferential agreements. However, we encourage the EU to 
further liberalise its agricultural sector, so that the benefits of free trade can be extended to all its 
trading partners.  
4.205.   At the beginning of this meeting, Mr Korte (Head of  EU Delegation) made some very 
candid remarks about the state of play of the multilateral trading system, pointing out that "all is 
not well". Globally, we see the trading community struggling to cope with other problems: slow 
economic growth; increasing p rotectionism; as well as political uncertainties affecting the business 
environment. Unfortunately, such are the circumstances that we have to operate in, as we find our 
path to the 11th Ministerial Conference and beyond.  
4.206.   The EU and its member States are k ey players of the multilateral trading system. Their 
policies have far -reaching implications for the world economy. We thank the EU for sharing with us 
their thoughts about the challenges that we face, and the options that we have. We hope this 
review will  stimulate further reflection on these pressing issues, and encourage WTO Members to 
take concrete collective actions to address them.  
4.207.   Finally, I would like to thank the delegation for the replies to our written questions. I wish 
the EU a very fruitful Tra de Policy Review.  
KAZAKHSTAN  
4.208.   I would like to wish the EU success in the implementation of the Single Market Strategy, 
which covers wide range of economy sectors of the Member States such as services, intellectual 
property, public procurement and many other s. I am confident that this practice will draw the 
attention of a number of countries as valuable exercise with tangible benefits.  
4.209.   EU's valuable assistance to developing countries has been also notable through 
participation in the Aid for Trade initiative.  In this regards it is worth mentioning the EU's revised 
strategy that puts emphasis on social protection and environmental sustainability together with 
inclusive economic growth.  
4.210.   Kazakhstan enjoys strong trade and economic relations with the EU.  
4.211.   Kazakhsta n and the European Union signed an Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation 
Agreement in Astana on 21 December 2015. The agreement covers 29 areas of cooperation, 
including investments, trade development, and infrastructure, as well as innovation, culture, spo rt, 
tourism and law enforcement. Its special trade section was thoroughly negotiated in line with 
Kazakhstan's commitments as part of the Eurasian Economic Union and WTO member.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.212.   Other priority areas of the agreement are education and human capital developm ent. 
Kazakhstan and the EU will strengthen cooperation in the framework of educational programs and 
research activities.  
4.213.   In 2016 the trade turnover between our countries has reached US$24.2 billion. Exports of 
goods from Kazakhstan during the period amount ed to US$18.5 billion, import from the EU 
US$5.7  billion.  
4.214.   In 2016, the gross inflow of direct investments from the Europeans Union amounted to 
US$10.7 billion, which represents 52.3% of the total volume of investments attracted to the 
economy of Kazakhstan  last year.  
4.215.   EU is one of the most important strategic partners of Kazakhstan and I believe that there 
is a bright future for further enhancing trade and economic cooperation.  
4.216.   I also would like to use this opportunity to thank the European Commission and pe rsonally 
Paolo Garzotti for the continuous support which has been provided to the Government of 
Kazakhstan in its accession to the World Trade Organization.  
4.217.   In closing, I would like to wish the delegation of the EU a successful Trade Policy Review.  
CHILE  
4.218.   Desde Chile vemos a la Unión Europea como un exitoso proyecto político, con una base 
económica, centrado en la cooperación. Las "solidaridades concretas" planteadas por Monet y 
Schumann como la forma de avanzar hacia la integración, son una vía que a nuestr o juicio 
representan los ideales humanistas en los que se funda la Europa comunitaria de la postguerra, 
cuyo principal objetivo ha sido y es asegurar la paz y el desarrollo.  
4.219.   La Unión Europea ha pasado por etapas difíciles, el europesimismo, la euroescleros is, el 
euroescepticismo, o las dudas actuales sobre el proyecto mismo. Pero siempre ha salido adelante 
con voluntad política, y en estos momentos lleva a cabo una reflexión profunda sobre su destino, 
considerando las nuevas realidades de la era digital, de l desafío demográfico, de las nuevas 
patologías internacionales y las amenazas a la paz y al libre comercio.  
4.220.   Asimismo, esperamos que los cambios futuros, derivados de la salida de uno de sus 
miembros, no signifiquen una alternación de nuestras relaciones bilaterales.  
4.221.   Confiamos en que nuevamente la Unión Europea superará un momento de incertidumbre, 
que por lo demás, nos afecta de alguna manera a todos, en todas partes.  
4.222.   Estamos atentos a su evolución. Creemos que un camino que le podemos ofrecer desde 
Chile, y desde América Latina, es la complementariedad y la integración profunda entre nuestras 
dos regiones, pues tenemos una historia, intereses y un destino común basado en los valores 
humanistas que compartimos.  
4.223.   La relación de Chile con la Europa Comunitar ia es de larga data. En 1963 se firma el 
primer acuerdo de cooperación científica y tecnológica entre Chile y el Observatorio Austral 
Europeo, cuyo desarrollo hasta ahora significa importantes programas de observación del espacio 
desde el Norte de Chile.  
4.224.   Este importante paso fue previo al inicio de nuestra relación política con la entonces 
Comunidad Económica Europea, que en el año 1964 instaló su Oficina para Latinoamérica en 
Santiago. A partir de entonces, la relación avanzó en varios planos y se reafirm ó, primero, con el 
Acuerdo de Tercera Generación firmado en 1990 al iniciar la recuperación democrática, el Acuerdo 
preparatorio de la Asociación Estratégica firmado en 1996, culminando con el Acuerdo de 
Asociación de 2002, que cubre tres pilares: Ámbito P olítico, Cooperación y Comercial. Al mismo 
tiempo, se suscribió un Acuerdo de Ciencia y Tecnología, muy exitoso, que fue recientemente 
renovado por cinco años.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.225.   Desde la suscripción del Acuerdo de Asociación, las relaciones entre Chile y la Unión 
Europea s e han visto intensificadas. Se han reforzado a través de "Diálogos Estructurados"; 
marcos de cooperación temáticos para desarrollar proyectos comunes e intercambios de 
información y buenas prácticas en varias áreas, como Medio Ambiente, Energía, Gobernanza  
Oceánica y Pesca, PYMEs y Clusters y Derechos Humanos.  
4.226.   En febrero de 2017, el AA cumplió 15 años. Dicho acuerdo incluye una cláusula evolutiva, 
cuya aplicación permitirá completar y modernizar sus términos, pasando de una liberalización del 
90,3% a un 10 0% de acceso a su mercado. Está previsto que en septiembre de este año demos 
inicio a las negociaciones con este fin.  
4.227.   La UE es un socio comercial esencial para Chile, que ocupa el 3° lugar, tras China y 
Estados Unidos. Desde la entrada en vigencia del Acue rdo de Asociación el intercambio comercial 
se ha más que duplicado, creciendo a un ritmo promedio de 6% anual. Durante el año 2016, el 
intercambio comercial entre Chile y la Unión Europea totalizó 17.682 millones de dólares EE.UU. La 
balanza comercial, en tanto, registró un saldo positivo para la Unión de 1.944 millones de dólares 
EE.UU. Nuestro intercambio comprende por parte de Chile cobre, madera, fruta fresca, pesca, 
vinos y productos de la agroindustria y la alimentación, así como algunos productos ind ustriales. 
Cabe destacar que las exportaciones chilenas diferentes a la minería, llegan casi al 50% del total.  
4.228.   Por parte europea, abarca automóviles y repuestos, medicamentos, maquinaria y equipos.  
4.229.   La UE es nuestro primer inversionista, con el 28% del tot al de inversiones extranjeras, 
llegando a un acumulado de 38.692 millones de dólares EE.UU. Chile también invierte en la UE, 
con un total cercano a los 4.000 millones de dólares EE.UU.  
4.230.   Para este ejercicio, hemos formulado 15 preguntas en áreas como antidum ping, 
salvaguardias, propiedad intelectual, ayuda interna agrícola, comercio electrónico y transporte 
aéreo. Agradecemos las respuestas entregadas que estamos procesando con nuestros equipos 
técnicos.  
4.231.   Al respecto, quisiéramos hacer notar que, según señala  el informe de la Secretaría, las 
políticas agrícolas no han cambiado sustancialmente desde el anterior examen. En este sentido, 
esperamos que la Unión Europea implemente la Decisión de Nairobi sobre la eliminación a los 
subsidios a la exportación. Además,  tenemos especial preocupación por algunos programas de 
ayuda interna que afectan a nuestras exportaciones de productos agropecuarios, así como las 
medidas excepcionales de carácter temporal en relación con las frutas y hortalizas que han sido 
extendidas p or un año más.  
4.232.   Con la UE trabajamos en la OCDE en diferentes áreas. Asimismo, es destacable nuestra 
relación en el marco de la Alianza del Pacífico, en la que hemos definido 17 áreas de trabajo que 
incluyen desde la facilitación de comercio hasta la educa ción. 
4.233.   Chile y la UE apoyamos firmemente el multilateralismo y el rol de la OMC. Formamos parte 
del Grupo de Amigos de las MIPYMES, tenemos un interés común en el comercio de servicios, 
somos activos participantes en las negociaciones del TiSA, las que espe ramos se retomen con el 
objetivo de lograr la conclusión del Acuerdo.  
4.234.   De manera específica, debo manifestar nuestra confianza en que, basados en  la común 
preocupación sistémica que compartimos entre Chile y la UE, y la necesidad de mantener la solidez 
del pilar regular de la OMC, será posible contar con el apoyo de la UE para arribar a una pronta y 
satisfactoria decisión para la selección pendiente en el Órgano de Apelación.  
4.235.   Finalmente, reconocemos los aportes de la Unión Europea en los trabajos preparator ios de 
la próxima MC11 en materias como Reglamentación Nacional para Servicios, Comercio Electrónico, 
Facilitación de Inversiones, y en particular en Agricultura y Subsidios a la pesca.  
4.236.   Finalmente, le deseamos a la Unión Europea una exitosa revisión de su política comercial 
en este examen.   WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  VIET  NAM 
4.237.   I would like to associate ourselves with the ASEAN Statement delivered by Ambassador 
Tan Yee Woan.  
4.238.   Since the last Trade Policy Review, we are happy to learn that the EU represents the 
world's largest trader in  commercial services, second -largest merchandise trader, and second -
largest in terms of GDP.  
4.239.   We share the same view with the EU that trade has made a vital contribution to the global 
economy's growth and highly appreciate the EU's full commitment of reinv igorating the multilateral 
trading system in these uncertain times.   
4.240.   Trade relations between Viet Nam and the EU have seen continuous high -rate growth 
during the period of 2000 -2016. The two -way trade increased from US$4.1 billion in 2000 to 
US$45  billion  in 2016, a tenfold increase within 16 years. Of the total, Viet Nam's export to the EU 
increased to US$34 billion and import grew to US$11 billion. In the first three months of this year, 
trade between the two parties totalled US$11 billion, an increase o f 11.4% comparing with the 
same period last year.  
4.241.   It is noted that Vietnamese and EU's products are complementary rather than competitive, 
which represents a huge potential for both side's traders and enterprises as trade liberalizes.   
4.242.   In terms of invest ment, EU is one of Viet Nam's most important investors with total 
registered capital of over US$21 billion to date.  
4.243.   For mutual benefit of Viet Nam and the EU, we desire that both parties will continue to 
promote closer cooperation through regional and bil ateral cooperation frameworks.  
4.244.   Although trade relations between Viet Nam and the EU have been developing strongly in 
recent years, bilateral trade, in fact, has not realised its full potential. To further promote the 
two-way trade, we would highly apprecia te if the EU takes note of the following issues:  
4.245.   Firstly, the proposed application of new Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) of Tricyclazole 
applied to rice imported into the EU. In our view, this proposed regulation seems to be developed 
without sufficient scie ntific evidence and thus would negatively affect import of this important 
product from Viet Nam.   
4.246.   Secondly, with respect to the legislation relating to trade remedies, we urge the EU to 
enact and apply with careful consideration to ensure fair competition  in international trade.  
4.247.   Lastly, we appreciate the EU for responding to our advanced written questions, and 
follow -up questions might be forthcoming if necessary.  
REPÚBLICA  DOMINICANA  
4.248.   La Unión Europea y la República Dominicana mantienen excelentes y estre chas relaciones 
comerciales desde cuando la República Dominicana se adhirió al entonces Acuerdo de Lomé IV en 
el 1989, renovado con el Acuerdo de Cotonou (2000) entre la Unión Europea y los Países ACP 
(Estados de África, Caribe y Pacífico). Las relaciones comerciales entre la UE y la República 
Dominicana se han afianzado aún más, gracias al Acuerdo de Asociación Económica 
UE-CARIFORUM (EPA), siendo la UE el segundo socio comercial de la República Dominicana, 
representando aproximadamente el 10% del valor de l comercio exterior del país en el 2015. En 
dicho año, el intercambio comercial ente la UE y la República Dominicana alcanzó los 
2,459  millones de euros, cerca del doble que una década atrás. Durante dicho año, la RD exportó 
bienes a la UE por valor de 834  millones de euros. El 62,4% de las exportaciones a la UE son de 
alimentos y 28,2% productos manufacturados como medicamentos e instrumentos médicos; la UE 
exportó a la República Dominicana bienes por valor de 1,626 millones de euros, principalmente 
maquin aria y alimentos. Agradecemos la importante cooperación bilateral y regional dirigida a 
fortalecer las reformas institucionales que fomentan el desarrollo del comercio exterior 
principalmente dirigidas a las participación de las pequeñas y medianas empresa s.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.249.   En este su décimo tercer examen de política comercial deseamos felicitar a la Unión 
Europea por tener una economía abierta y transparente, y por su firme compromiso con el 
fortalecimiento del Sistema Multilateral de Comercio. Desde su anterior examen, la economía de la 
UE ha seguido recuperándose de manera gradual, aunque desigual, tras la crisis financiera: 
experimentó primero una recuperación temporal, después una recesión en la zona del euro y, a 
continuación, otra recuperación. No obstante, no ha re puntado a un ritmo tan rápido como algunas 
otras grandes economías, ni tan rápido como en recesiones anteriores, agudizándose las 
asimetrías entre las economías de la zona norte y sur de la Unión Europea, lo cual la torna muy 
vulnerable a imprevistos choqu es internos y externos. La ejecución de efectivas y coordinadas 
políticas de estabilidad fiscal, financiera y de la deuda, serán fundamentales para la exitosa 
preservación de la UE.   
4.250.   La economía ha estado marcada por una mejora de la tasa anual de crecimi ento del PIB 
real, que en 2015 llegó a situarse en el 2,2%. Las perspectivas de la economía de la UE para 2017 
apuntan a un crecimiento continuo y sostenido; se espera que el crecimiento del PIB en la zona del 
euro será del 1,6% en 2017 y del 1,7% aproxima damente en 2016. Se prevé que el consumo 
privado, que ha sido el principal motor del crecimiento del PIB, siga siéndolo en 2017. Se prevé 
asimismo que la inflación en la zona del euro, que ha venido aumentando desde mediados de 
2016, continúe a corto plazo  debido al fin del descenso de los precios de la energía, la subida de 
esos precios y el aumento de los precios de importación  
4.251.   Durante el período objeto de examen, la Unión Europea ha tenido que enfrentar 
importantes desafíos que han afectado la economía d e la UE y que es probable continúen en el 
futuro próximo. El referéndum celebrado en el Reino Unido (Brexit), el elevado número de 
refugiados, las variaciones de los precios del petróleo, el terrorismo y la incertidumbre 
electoral/política son factores tod os ellos que han tenido una repercusión. Todos estos factores 
causan incertidumbre, y las autoridades deberán continuar monitoreándolos de cerca a fin de 
evitar inestabilidad tanto económica como política en la región.  
4.252.   El desempleo ha registrado descensos significativos en sus tasas, desde su pico del 11% 
en abril de 2013 al 9% a finales de 2015. En 2016, la tasa de desempleo se situó en el 8,5%, y en 
diciembre de ese año descendió al 8,2%, el nivel más bajo registrado desde febrero de 2009. 
Entre octubre d e 2015 y 2016, las tasas de desempleo se redujeron en 24 Estados miembros. Sin 
embargo, en varios Estados miembros del Sur persisten las elevadas tasas de desempleo de larga 
duración y de desempleo juvenil, lo cual sigue siendo motivo de preocupación.  
4.253.   Desde el último examen de política comercial, se han registrado algunas novedades 
interesantes en la Unión Europea. En octubre de 2015, la Comisión Europea hizo pública una 
nueva política de comercio e inversión para la UE: Comercio para todos: hacia una polí tica de 
comercio e inversión más responsable, la cual tiene por objeto respaldar la expansión de las 
cadenas de valor mundiales, el comercio de servicios y el comercio electrónico. Con el objetivo de 
reducir los obstáculos no arancelarios y ampliar el come rcio de servicios, aprovechando al mismo 
tiempo la mejora de la tecnología para facilitar el suministro transfronterizo de servicios y 
reconociendo la importancia de la movilidad de la mano de obra y el reconocimiento mutuo de los 
títulos de aptitud profes ional.  
4.254.   En el área de facilitación de comercio, felicitamos a la UE, ya que prácticamente todos los 
trámites aduaneros se realizan de forma electrónica y se despachan en el plazo de una hora. El 
1º de mayo de 2016 entraron en vigor las principales disposic iones del nuevo código aduanero de 
la Unión (CAU), que sustituye al código aduanero comunitario de 1992. Entre las modificaciones 
introducidas por el CAU cabe citar las siguientes: mejora del programa de Operadores Económicos 
Autorizados (OEA) (al que en 2 015 se acogían ya 14.000 operadores, que representaban el 71% 
de las importaciones); simplificación de los sistemas de almacenes aduaneros, zonas francas y 
almacenamiento temporal; mejora del marco común de gestión de los riesgos; reducción a tres 
años de la validez de la información arancelaria vinculante y establecimiento de la obligatoriedad 
de esa información para el importador; introducción gradual de sistemas electrónicos en las 
aduanas para 2020; y racionalización y reorganización de las normas de or igen y la valoración en 
aduana.  
4.255.   También, en 2016 se introdujeron nuevos reglamentos en relación con las medidas 
antidumping y compensatorias, y llama la atención que la UE figura entre los Miembros de la OMC WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  que con más frecuencia recurren a las medidas c omerciales especiales; por lo que llamamos a las 
autoridades a ejercer la debida moderación en la aplicación de este tipo de medidas.  
4.256.   Asimismo, en 2016 se estableció una nueva legislación sobre sanidad animal, plagas de los 
vegetales y controles oficiales . El paquete tiene por objeto simplificar y modernizar la legislación 
vigente sobre la cadena alimentaria, condensando casi 70 instrumentos legislativos diferentes. 
Felicitamos a la Unión Europea, pues esta nueva legislación nos parece un paso en la direcc ión 
correcta, pero nos sigue causando preocupación las barreras no arancelarias que enfrentan 
nuestros productos para acceder al mercado europeo, tanto los obstáculos técnicos al comercio, 
como las medidas sanitarias y fitosanitarias, los cuales siguen est ando muy extendidos. Entre el 
1º de enero de 2015 y el 31 de diciembre de 2016, la UE presentó al Comité OTC 
176 notificaciones de conformidad con el párrafo 6 del artículo 10, y los distintos Estados 
miembros presentaron otras 52 notificaciones. En 2015 y  2016, la UE presentó un total de 
107 notificaciones al Comité de Medidas Sanitarias y Fitosanitarias de la OMC.   
4.257.   Con respecto, al sector agrícola, en el pasado examen de política comercial, se informó 
que la política agrícola común (PAC) fue objeto de un a importante reforma mediante la adopción 
de varias directivas y normas de aplicación que abarcaban los pagos directos a los productores 
agrícolas, las medidas de mercado y el desarrollo rural; sin embargo, tal y como lo expresamos en 
dicha ocasión, manten emos nuestra preocupación de que si bien es posible que la reforma de la 
PAC reduzca las distorsiones de la producción en la UE, la financiación total para la agricultura y el 
desarrollo rural se mantendrá por encima de los 50.000 millones de euros anuales , lo cual es un 
monto considerable, que afecta la competitividad de los productos de la UE en los mercados 
internacionales, en perjuicio de los demás. Además, se siguen manteniendo los instrumentos de 
protección tales como aranceles elevados, contingentes arancelarios y recurso a la salvaguardia 
especial para la agricultura, por lo que los productores agrícolas siguen estando protegidos de las 
variaciones de los precios internacionales.  
4.258.   La República Dominicana ha presentado algunas preguntas a la UE, sobre  Facilitación de 
Comercio, aranceles, indicaciones geográficas, entre otros temas, cuyas respuestas agradecemos. 
Para terminar, solo nos queda felicitar a la Unión Europea y les deseamos muchos éxitos en este  
examen de política comercial y en el futuro.  
CANADA  
4.259.   I welcome the opportunity to participate in the 13th Trade Policy Review of the European 
Union. As highlighted in the Secretariat and the EU's report, the last two years have seen key 
developments in the EU's trade policy, including a new trade and i nvestment strategy (Trade for 
All) and a historic landmark in our own bilateral trade relationship with the signature and 
forthcoming provisional application of the Canada -EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade 
Agreement or CETA.  
4.260.   As one of the most ambitious and progressive trade agreements Canada or the EU have 
ever concluded, CETA is a critical milestone in our mutual commitment to a free, equitable and 
open trading system. It is the right deal at the right time. This agreement sets the stage to further 
enhance and strengthen Canada's relationship with our second largest trading partner, with our 
two-way trade in goods and services already totalling more than $142 billion in 2016, and bilateral 
investment stocks reaching approximately $479 billion in 2016.  
4.261.   CETA is also an important landmark in the development of Canada's Progressive Trade 
Agenda, one that supports economic growth that benefits everyone and helps to maintain support 
for trade in open societies. In the face of rising protectionism, it is Canada 's hope that CETA can 
offer inspiration for WTO Members on progressive approaches to trade policy and that CETA's 
expected outcomes will go a long way to demonstrating the value of trade liberalization. In this 
respect, we look forward to opportunities to work with the EU to advance innovative elements of a 
progressive trade agenda at the WTO and in other fora, including on issues such as environment, 
labour, as well as trade and gender.  
4.262.   The EU continues to uphold and contribute to the work of the WTO, and on that note, I 
would like to thank the EU for their important role and continued efforts to advance negotiations 
on agriculture, disciplines on fisheries subsidies, Environmental Goods, Trade in Services and WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  electronic commerce. We appreciate and support the EU's calls for WTO Members to focus on 
finding common ground on identifying potential deliverables to promote the global trade agenda to 
the benefit of all Members – especially those least developed economies that stand to benefit the 
most.  
4.263.   Canada and the EU recognize that transparency practices and the dispute settlement 
system are key elements of the WTO, and that these elements remain as important as ever in light 
of rising protectionist sentiment. To that end, we are grateful for the EU's leadership  in efforts to 
increase the transparency and accessibility of regulatory measures for businesses, especially 
MSMEs. I would like to also note that Canada and the EU worked closely together in 2016 to 
establish a WTO mechanism for developing, documenting, a nd sharing practices and procedures in 
the conduct of WTO disputes. We look forward to working with the EU to advance work on these 
important areas.  
4.264.   In its October 2015 Trade for All strategy, the European Commission reiterated its 
commitment to increase t rade and investment, through a reduction of non -tariff barriers and by 
promoting an open and transparent approach to negotiations. We support this commitment, but 
note that in some cases, the EU's approach to regulation and uncertainties related to its 
decision-making processes are not always conducive to achieving this objective. Canada looks 
forward to hearing developments in this area at the mid -term review of the Trade for All strategy.  
4.265.   Furthermore, while both Canada and the EU recognize the importance of protecting 
human, animal and plant health as well as the environment, some decisions have not always been 
timely or science -based. Today's Trade Policy Review allows us to seek greater details and answers 
to technical questions we have with regards to t he EU's trade environment and decision -making 
process. For example, delays and unpredictability in the EU's authorization process for genetically 
modified products can impede market access even after products have been found to be safe by 
the European Food  Safety Authority. We also note that the EU's regulation of endocrine disruptors 
would be improved by using universally accepted, science -based risk assessments. Finally, we 
seize this opportunity to raise issues we have with regards to the administration of quotas by the 
EU. We thank EU for its timely answers to our questions on the aforementioned issues, and on a 
range of others including: the Common Agriculture Policy, timber regulations, trade in services, 
country of origin labelling and government proc urement. Officials in Ottawa are carefully studying 
the responses and may submit follow -up questions.  
4.266.   As anti -globalization and protectionism continue to loom large in public discourse, Canada 
commends the EU for its stalwart defence and promotion of free and "responsible" trade, both here 
at the WTO and in its bilateral relationships. Canada and the EU must continue to work together to 
defend the values we share and to ensure that progressive trade works for everyone.  
COSTA  RICA 
4.267.   La Patriótica Costarricens e, una canción del siglo XIX que, sin ser nuestro Himno Nacional, 
quizás sea nuestro Himno emocional, dice en una estrofa:  
"Yo no envidio los goces de Europa // La grandeza que en ella se encierra // Es mil veces más bella 
mi tierra // Con su palma, su br isa y su sol //"  
4.268.   Hoy, la Unión Europea es un bloque comercial, político y cultural del que sí tenemos mucho 
que aprender y me complace participar en su decimotercer Examen de Políticas comerciales. Este 
espacio nos ofrece la oportunidad de conocer más a fo ndo a un socio comercial tan relevante en el 
comercio global, en particular para nuestro país. Desde su conformación y en paralelo a la 
profundización de su proceso de integración, nuestro intercambio comercial con esta región se ha 
intensificado, llegando  en 2016 a representar el 14% del comercio total de nuestro país. La Unión 
Europea es, hoy por hoy, nuestro segundo socio comercial.  
4.269.   Hablar de la Unión Europea es hablar de una economía abierta y transparente, un bloque 
comercial que mantiene o está negoc iando acuerdos comerciales con más de 140 socios y que 
impulsa y se compromete con los valores y principios de la Organización Mundial del Comercio.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.270.   Hablar de la Unión Europea es hablar del bloque comercial más grande y más integrado del 
mundo. La Unión E uropea mantiene una actitud de apertura con sus socios comerciales, con 
respeto y apego a las normas multilaterales y estándares internacionales. La convergencia 
normativa y, sobre todo, la unificación de su política comercial hacia terceros, beneficia 
sobremanera a sus socios.  
4.271.   Hablar de la Unión Europea es hablar de solidaridad y de preservar un modo de vida que 
empodera a otros países y regiones a que vivan conforme a ella. Nos recordaba recientemente el 
Presidente del Consejo de la Unión Europea, Donald  Tusk, que "La palabra 'solidaridad' aparece en 
16 ocasiones en los Tratados que los Estados miembros han suscrito y ratificado". Precisamente en 
este contexto, Costa Rica aprovecha la ocasión para unirnos también a las conmemoraciones del 
60º aniversario de los Tratados de Roma de la UE, que destacan la excepcional alianza de naciones 
libres en pro de la unidad y de la solidaridad.  
4.272.   Costa Rica y la Unión Europea han sostenido, a lo largo del tiempo, valores y acciones en 
una relación respetuosa y prolífica  basada en intereses y aspiraciones comunes en materias como 
el respeto al Estado de Derecho, la promoción y protección de los derechos humanos y las 
libertades fundamentales; la promoción de la paz, el desarrollo sostenible, la lucha contra el 
cambio clim ático, el diálogo político y el comercio exterior.  
4.273.   Desde la conformación de la Unión Europea, que sucedió en paralelo a la profundización 
del proceso de integración regional centroamericana, ese intercambio se ha intensificado con 
beneficios considerables  para nuestros países y en particular para Costa Rica, quien es 
actualmente el país de la región que más exporta a la Unión Europea. De hecho, Centroamérica y 
la Unión Europea concluyeron un acuerdo comprensivo cuyo pilar comercial entró en vigor a fines 
de 2013.  
4.274.   El intercambio comercial bajo condiciones preferenciales y de seguridad jurídica que 
garantiza el Acuerdo de Asociación, así como las normas y los acuerdos de la Organización Mundial 
del Comercio, propician un marco para el fortalecimiento y expans ión de los lazos comerciales y de 
los flujos de inversión bilaterales entre Costa Rica y la Unión Europea.  
4.275.   En el último quinquenio, el comercio de Costa Rica con la Unión Europea creció en 
promedio anual 5,9%, al pasar de 2.802 millones de dólares EE.UU. en 2012 a 3.525 millones de 
dólares EE.UU. en 2016. Por su parte, la Inversión Extranjera Directa (IED) originaria de la UE 
representó aproximadamente el 27,6% del total percibido por Costa Rica durante 2016. Confiamos 
en que el Acuerdo de Asociación conti núe propiciando el fortalecimiento y la expansión de los lazos 
comerciales y de los flujos de inversión bilaterales entre Costa Rica y la Unión Europea en el 
futuro.  
4.276.   A lo largo del tiempo, las coincidencias en la visión y objetivos entre Costa Rica y la U nión 
Europea se han manifestado en la promoción conjunta de varias iniciativas en el marco de esta 
organización. En particular, nos complace el trabajo reciente realizado con la UE en temas como 
las negociaciones para la expansión del Acuerdo sobre Tecnolo gías de Información (ITA II), el 
Acuerdo sobre Bienes Ambientales (EGA) y el Acuerdo sobre el Comercio de Servicios (TiSA). 
Compartimos también el interés en hacer avanzar la agenda sobre comercio electrónico en la OMC 
e identificar vías para que esta orga nización contribuya a una mayor participación e integración de 
las MiPyMEs en el comercio internacional.  
4.277.   Hablar de la Unión Europea es hablar de paz. Este ha sido el proyecto internacional de paz 
más ambicioso y también exitoso en la historia de la civiliz ación humana. Esta unión de voluntades 
es la mejor ilustración del edificio de la paz entre las naciones y un recordatorio de que el comercio 
es un vehículo de la paz. La paz es, en efecto, el fin último de nuestro trabajo como 
representantes de nuestras n aciones. A través del comercio, aprendamos pues, de la Unión 
Europea, y continuemos forjando un mundo más próspero.  
INDIA  
4.278.   EU is a key driver of the global economy and critically important for global trade and also 
has significant flow of global FDI both in ward and outward. Since, the last review, EU's trade in 
both goods and services as also the current account surplus has increased. We also note that the WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  significant challenges for EU economy include the outcome of the existing negotiations as a result 
of Brexit, relatively high rate of unemployment, non -performing loans, high private and public debt 
as also the need for reforms in the banking and other sectors of the economy in several states of 
the EU.  
4.279.   Regarding EU's trade policy, we would like to underli ne some of our systemic concerns 
which include the diverse and complex nature of applied tariff rates within the EU, non -ad valorem  
duties mostly in agriculture, tariff quotas and significant tariff escalation and peaks in areas such 
as textiles and agricu lture where developing countries like India have interests.  
4.280.   We also note from the Secretariat's report that agricultural policies have not changed 
significantly during the period of review. Agriculture still remains a highly protected sector in the 
EU. Fo r example, even though the current total AMS has come down from €39.39 billion in 2001 to 
€5.91 billion in 2013, the Green Box support has increased from €20.66 billion to €68.997  billion in 
the same period. Besides box shifting, it does not appear that th e agricultural profile has changed 
much in many EU countries. Therefore, more needs to be done to reduce the distortions in 
agriculture trade in the EU.  
4.281.   We had posed more than a 100 written questions in advance to the EU delegation which 
indicates the ser iousness with which we approved this Review. We thank the EU for their 
responses, which we will study carefully. However, I wish to highlight some specific concerns 
which affect the vast underlying potential of the trade between India and EU.  
4.282.   EU's principl e of setting maximum residue level at the limit of detection for a large number 
of pesticides and chemicals without any scientific basis and not according to CODEX standards 
creates major entry barriers for Indian exports.   
4.283.   Similarly, agricultural product s including rice, peanuts, organic products, fruits like grapes, 
vegetables and sea food face barriers due to complex regulatory regimes and SPS requirements 
which are not based on risk assessments. In particular, we wish to raise the issue of tricyclazole  in 
rice for which EU has issued a recent notification in June 2017 laying down new MRLs for basmati 
rice. The EU notification besides giving a limited period (of only six months) for transitional 
measures also disregards pertinent information about the lo ng history of safe use of tricyclazole in 
several rice producing and consuming countries in the world.  We urge the EU to maintain the MRL 
at the current level of 1 mg/kg (1 ppmillion).  
4.284.   I would also like to emphasize that Indian tea sector uses no anthraqu inone but due to an 
unfounded misperception and consequent export prohibition, EU consumers are being deprived of 
some of the most exquisite teas in the world from Darjeeling in India.  
4.285.   The REACH regulation of the EU places several barriers on trade in chem icals and 
substances containing chemicals and involves high costs. Such complex regulatory framework 
together with high fees is a major hurdle for exporters, especially MSMEs. We urge you to review 
these regulations urgently.  
4.286.   Another continuing concern to India relates to the issue of transit of traditional and generic 
medicines for use in Africa and Latin America through EU ports. Impounding, delaying or 
confiscating such medicines which are not meant for use in EU, on grounds of violation of EU 
patents or  trademarks, not only harms Indian exporters, but also deprives the poor in various 
countries of access to these generic medicines.  
4.287.   Indian information technology companies provide software and services which bring 
transformational benefits for manufacturi ng enterprises, banking and insurance sectors all over the 
globe and enhance their competitiveness. EU is implementing its ICT directive for ensuring intra -
EU mobility for ICT professionals. We would request an early implementation of this so that Indian 
skilled professionals, especially in the IT/ITes sector can also avail of these benefits.  
4.288.   Before I conclude let me also mention that the important role that EU plays in WTO 
negotiations. We hope the EU will actively engage in implementing the decisions of t he past 
Ministerial Conferences and on important areas of the development agenda as we approach the 
Ministerial in Buenos Aires.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.289.   We wish the delegation of the European Union a productive and successful TPR and also 
take this opportunity to thank Ambassador  Marc and his team in Geneva for their work and 
cooperation.  
THE SEPARATE  CUSTOMS  TERRITORY  OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU  
4.290.   May I take this opportunity to express how much we appreciate the leadership roles played 
by Ambassador Marc Vanheukelen in our day-to-day work. His dedication and professionalism are 
important elements in helping to facilitate our discussions in many of the WTO negotiations.  
4.291.   Just as it was at the last review in 2015, the EU remains of crucial importance to world 
trade. It is the s econd -largest exporter and importer of goods, the largest exporter and importer of 
services, and the largest trading partner for 80 different countries around the world.  
4.292.   The EU is also a strong supporter of a rules -based multilateral trading system. Even d uring 
difficult times for the global economy, it continues to advocate further trade liberalization. For 
example, the EU ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) in September 2015, which was a 
key outcome of the Bali MC9. It has since implemented th e expanded Information Technology 
Agreement as well (an MC10 achievement that will surely benefit all Members).  
4.293.   In our written questions submitted in advance we are seeking further clarification of 
certain aspects of the EU's trade policy direction and app roach. We thank the EU for its replies. I 
will just mention, if I may, a few of the issues we raised, in which we have a particular interest.  
4.294.   Firstly, the EU Commission investigates allegations of dumping or subsidies based on 
complaints from producers, bu t our understanding is that it may also self -initiate investigations. 
We would like to engage with the EU in order to explore the conditions and practices of this 
mechanism in further detail.  
4.295.   Secondly, we have noted that a Proposal amending the EU's anti -dumping and anti -subsidy 
Regulation 2016/1036 was proposed on the 9th of November, 2016. We have asked the EU to 
kindly provide details of the new procedure now anticipated, and the expected timeline for passing 
this Proposal.  
4.296.   And, thirdly, along with many Members with similar concerns, we would appreciate having 
more information from the EU on government public procurement market, investment regime, 
single market strategy of 2015, and EU's actions on climate change.  
4.297.   Finally, on bilateral relationship with t he European Union, we continue to enjoy a strong 
bilateral trade and investment cooperation. The EU is currently our 5th largest trading partner, and 
it is an important destination for our overseas investment. In 2016, the total value of bilateral 
trade be tween us was around US$48.8 billion, and there was a total of US$8.3 billion of new 
investment between us in the same year.   
4.298.   Despite this already strong relationship, however, it is evident that there is still huge 
potential for improvement. We are convin ced that we can both benefit from continuing efforts to 
deepen our bilateral cooperation in the important areas of trade, investment, culture and others in 
the future.  
4.299.   In conclusion, I want to wish the EU a very successful and constructive Trade Policy 
Review. 
PERÚ  
4.300.   La relación entre el Perú y la UE tiene una sólida base en valores y principios compartidos, 
como la democracia y el estado de derecho, la promoción y defensa de los derechos humanos, el 
desarrollo sostenible y la promoción del comercio internaci onal. En este último aspecto, 
compartimos una relación comercial importante. Nuestro intercambio comercial anual con la Unión 
Europea se eleva a aproximadamente 10 000 millones de dólares EE.UU., de los cuales las 
exportaciones del Perú hacia la Unión Euro pea representan casi la sexta parte de todas las 
exportaciones peruanas. En particular, gracias al Acuerdo Comercial Perú –Unión Europea, en vigor WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  desde marzo del año 2013, hemos obtenido un acceso preferencial para productos peruanos de 
exportación no trad icional, como espárragos, paltas, café, pimientos picantes, alcachofas, entre 
otros. Esto nos satisface de modo especial en tanto nuestras exportaciones no tradicionales hacia 
la UE, que tanto ayudan a la creación de puestos de trabajo, han mantenido una t endencia 
sostenida hacia el crecimiento desde el año 2013.  
4.301.   Dentro del marco de esta importante relación comercial, de la cual nos alegramos, cabe 
resaltar algunos asuntos relevantes para nuestro trabajo conjunto en Ginebra.  
4.302.   En primer lugar, destacamos y valoramos el compromiso de la UE con la vigencia y el 
fortalecimiento del sistema multilateral de comercio. Esto es particularmente alentador en un 
contexto marcado por la incertidumbre respecto al futuro del comercio internacional. La UE puede 
estar segur a que tiene en el Perú a un aliado para sostener la vigencia  de la OMC y modernizar su 
agenda, especialmente cuando se trate de la prohibición de ciertas subvenciones a la pesca, de la 
reglamentación del comercio electrónico y del comercio de servicios en  todas sus modalidades, 
entre otros importantes temas.  
4.303.   De igual manera, compartimos el interés de la UE en la culminación del Acuerdo de 
Comercio de Servicios (TISA), cuyas negociaciones esperamos se reinicien prontamente.  
4.304.   Dicho esto, también queremos ex presar algunas preocupaciones.  
4.305.   Ante todo, el Perú confía en que el proceso conocido como Brexit se llevará a cabo sin 
menoscabo de los intereses comerciales y económicos de los Miembros implicados directa o 
indirectamente en el mismo. Somos conscientes que  dicho proceso puede tener efectos no solo en 
los compromisos de la UE y el Reino Unido como Miembros de esta Organización, sino también 
respecto de los acuerdos comerciales regionales que fueron negociados por la UE en años pasados, 
como el Acuerdo Comerc ial Perú –Unión Europea. En este sentido, el diálogo sobre estos efectos 
debe ser oportuno y abierto a los Miembros de esta Organización y a los socios comerciales 
concernidos, según el caso.  
4.306.   En segundo lugar, confiamos en que la futura norma europea para definir los criterios y la 
manera de identificar a los perturbadores endocrinos que tengan efectos nocivos en los 
consumidores, esté basada en un enfoque que tenga en cuenta los efectos de la exposición real a 
los perturbadores, pues un enfoque contrario, bajado simplemente en el peligro, tendría un 
impacto, negativo e innecesario, para el comercio internacional.  
4.307.   También tememos un posible efecto negativo en el comercio internacional de ciertos 
productos agrícolas como consecuencia de los recientes cambios  en la normativa europea relativa 
a niveles máximos de residuos de plaguicidas. La determinación de los niveles máximos de 
residuos de plaguicidas debe tener un fundamento científico claro y tender a la estabilidad.  
4.308.   Por último, sobre la normativa europea r elativa a "nuevos alimentos", que crea una 
barrera al ingreso al mercado europeo de ciertos alimentos e ingredientes alimentarios peruanos 
por el único hecho de no haber sido comercializados en dicho mercado antes del 15 de mayo de 
1997, nos preocupa que n o se ha llegado a proveer, a la fecha, un sustento científico que 
demuestre la necesidad de aplicar una regulación de esta índole.  
4.309.   El Perú agradece a la UE por sus respuestas a nuestras preguntas, las cuales serán 
analizadas con detenimiento. Asimismo, les  deseamos muchos éxitos en su decimotercer Examen 
de Políticas Comerciales.  
ECUADOR  
4.310.   En lo principal, Ecuador participa con gran interés de este Examen de Políticas 
Comerciales, pues el pasado 11 de noviembre suscribió con la Unión Europea, hoy el proceso d e 
integración más avanzado de la historia mundial, el Protocolo de Adhesión de Ecuador al Acuerdo 
Comercial Multipartes, del que forman parte Colombia y Perú. Este Protocolo se aplica desde el 
1° de enero de 2017 convirtiéndose Ecuador, con una visión estr atégica de largo plazo talvez en el 
socio comercial más reciente de la UE.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.311.   Tras la aprobación del Acuerdo varios productos ecuatorianos como flores, camarón, 
banano y atún mantendrán o mejorarán el acceso preferencial que tenían hasta ahora en Europa y 
otros tantos productos de exportación entrarán sin restricciones.  
4.312.   Los productos ecuatorianos habrían tenido que pagar aranceles de entre el 2,4 y 24% para 
ingresar al mercado de la UE pero gracias a ese Protocolo, el 99% de la oferta exportable ahora 
ingresa  con arancel cero.  
4.313.   Según cifras proporcionadas por el Banco Central de Ecuador durante el período 
enero -mayo de 2017, las exportaciones no petroleras del Ecuador hacia la Unión Europea pasaron 
de 1.159 millones de dólares EE.UU. en 2016 a 1.387 millones d e dólares EE.UU. en 2017, lo que 
denota un crecimiento del 20% de las ventas ecuatorianas hacia dicho bloque comercial, solo en 
los primeros cinco meses del año.  
4.314.   Entre los productos ecuatorianos con mayor incremento en su valor de exportación, de 
enero a m ayo de 2017, se encuentran: atún en conserva, banano, camarón, aceite de palma, 
rosas y flores, manufacturas de madera, conservas de frutas, hortalizas preparadas, azúcar y 
manufacturas plásticas, entre otros.  
4.315.   De otro lado, las importaciones no petroleras  de Ecuador desde el bloque europeo durante 
los meses enero -mayo pasaron de 653 millones de dólares EE.UU. en 2016 a 767 millones de 
dólares EE.UU. en 2017. Entre los principales productos de importación desde la UE, en el 2017, se 
encuentran: instrumentos  y aparatos médicos, mesas de cirugía, antisueros y medicamentos, 
alimentos para animales, fertilizantes, productos químicos, adhesivos plásticos, extrusoras para 
trabajar caucho o plástico, entre otros.  
4.316.   En el período analizado, el saldo comercial no petr olero entre Ecuador y la Unión Europea 
tuvo un crecimiento a favor de Ecuador del 23%. Es decir, el balance comercial positivo pasó de 
506 millones de dólares EE.UU. en enero -mayo de 2016 a 620 millones de dólares EE.UU. en ese 
mismo período del 2017.  
4.317.   Permítame referirme al informe presentado por la Secretaría para este examen de política 
comercial y destacar el rol activo e importante que desempeña la Unión Europea en el sistema 
multilateral de comercio, y hemos tomado nota que la UE es el segundo principa l exportador e 
importador de mercancías; el mayor exportador e importador de servicios; y, el principal 
interlocutor comercial de 80 países. Esto evidencia su importante participación en el comercio 
mundial.   
4.318.   Asimismo, registramos como un hecho positivo q ue la Comisión Europea publicó en 
octubre de 2015 la nueva política de comercio e inversión "Comercio para todos: hacia una nueva 
política de comercio e inversión más responsable", cuyo objetivo básico es respaldar la expansión 
de las cadenas de valor mund iales, reducir los obstáculos no arancelarios y ampliar el comercio de 
servicios.  
4.319.   Tomamos nota también de la importancia que representan las políticas de comercio e 
inversión de la UE para el sistema multilateral de comercio y la forma en que enfrenta sus  
dificultades, entre ellas, la baja tasa media de crecimiento económico entre los Estados miembros 
con importantes diferencias entre ellos; y, las negociaciones que lleva adelante con el Reino Unido 
en el marco del Brexit.  
4.320.   Adicionalmente, consideramos como  positivo el nuevo Código Aduanero de la Unión, en 
vigor el 1 de mayo de 2016, que simplifica y moderniza los procedimientos aduaneros poniendo las 
normas en consonancia con los tratados de la UE.  
4.321.   Por ser un tema de mucho interés para Ecuador, subrayamos q ue en el informe se hace 
referencia a la última reforma de la política pesquera común que estableció un compromiso 
jurídico respecto de los niveles de pesca sostenibles y medidas para reducir el exceso de capacidad 
de explotación. En ese sentido, reconocem os que la pesca de la UE en aguas extraterritoriales se 
lleva a cabo en el marco de organizaciones regionales de ordenación pesquera (OROP) y de 
acuerdos de colaboración de pesca sostenible, cooperando de esa forma con terceros países y 
organizaciones inte rnacionales en la lucha contra la pesca ilegal, no declarada y no reglamentada.   WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.322.   Para concluir, anticipamos nuestro agradecimiento a la delegación de la Unión Europea por 
sus respuestas a las preguntas que hemos planteado sobre algunos aspectos concretos de su 
política comercial, que proveerá de insumos importantes para el fortalecimiento de las relaciones 
con ese bloque; y, al Embajador Marc Vanheukelen por su permanente colaboración.  
JAPAN  
4.323.   The European Union is one of Japan's most important economic part ners and we will 
continue working to further develop the strong ties between us, as demonstrated by our joint 
effort to conclude the Economic Partnership Agreement.  
4.324.   The EU economy has been gradually recovering as shown by the real GDP growth rate of 
2.2% a chieved in 2015, mainly thanks to the increased personal consumption. The EU, however, 
continues to face a number of challenges, not only economically but also politically. Those 
challenges include large national debts and high unemployment in the south, t he impact of Brexit, 
the recent increase of refugees and so forth. Japan hopes that the EU will overcome these 
challenges and further contribute to global trade and the world economy through its steady 
development.  
4.325.   Now, let me touch upon the EU's trade pol icies. 
4.326.   With regard to the WTO, Japan highly appreciates the fact that the EU has contributed for 
many years to the Multilateral Trading System. Japan will collaborate further with the EU to 
strengthen the functions of the WTO by ensuring the implementation  of agreements through the 
activities of the regular bodies as well as the dispute settlement mechanism. Japan also positively 
evaluates the EU's leadership role in our preparation for a successful MC11 in Buenos Aires.  
4.327.   On the plurilateral front, Japan com mends the EU's active participation in the EGA and the 
TiSA negotiations. Having said that, we expect the EU to redouble its efforts in negotiations on 
certain issues. Japan will continue to cooperate with the EU towards the early resumption and 
conclusion  of these negotiations.  
4.328.   Turning to the FTA, the EU recently concluded an important agreement with Canada and is 
continuing to actively engage in other FTA negotiations, including the one with Japan. Japan highly 
appreciates the EU's positive work towards t rade liberalization and encourages the EU to aim high 
in formulating an FTA -policy that will complement the Multilateral Trading System.  
4.329.   Concerning the Japan -EU Economic Partnership Agreement, I have just learnt that the 
Ministers of both sides meeting in Brussels agreed in Principle a couple of hours ago. I am happy 
to share this good news with all of you. We believe that the benefits of trade liberalization to be 
realized by the Japan -EU EPA will extend beyond Japan and the EU.  
4.330.   Now, let me touch upon some  specific issues.  
4.331.   With regard to the digital economy, the EU has been working on creating a Digital Single 
Market. Japan commends the EU's initiative in this area, because promoting digitization further 
strengthens the global value chain by reducing the co st of business and enabling small and 
medium -sized enterprises to access bigger markets.  
4.332.   On the other hand, Japan would like to emphasize that ensuring a solid framework for free 
flow of data is fundamentally important for the digitization of all sectors. We, therefore, expect the 
EU to develop policies that promote free flow of data while maintaining a good balance with other 
policy considerations such as personal data protection. In this regard, Japan intends to closely 
monitor the implementation of the E U's General Data Protection Regulation and to carefully watch 
its deliberation on potential data localization measures.  
4.333.   Concerning Aid for Trade, the EU is one of the largest donors to this program. The EU and 
its individual Member Countries are proactivel y providing assistance to developing countries, 
particularly in Africa and Asia. Japan maintains close cooperation with the EU in carrying out these 
activities.   WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.334.   Moreover, Japan is aware that the EU is currently engaged in updating its 2007 AfT 
Strategy. We expect that an updated strategy will further contribute to capacity building and 
sustainable economic growth in developing countries.  
4.335.   Lastly, with regard to the Brexit negotiations, Japan hopes that the EU and the United 
Kingdom will work to ensure a sm ooth process that consciously sets out to minimize potential 
confusion in the global economy. In this regard, Japan encourages the EU and the United Kingdom 
to see to it that their negotiations are transparent and provide sufficient predictability to 
busin esses. Japan hopes that, even after Brexit, the EU will maintain the current business 
environment as much as possible.  
4.336.   In conclusion, I would like to express Japan's strong wish to continue to cooperate with the 
EU in dealing with the various challenges f acing us.  
4.337.   We wish the European Union a successful and productive TPR.  
EL SALVADOR  
4.338.   Para El Salvador es un honor participar en este ejercicio de transparencia de un socio 
comercial tan importante, como es la Unión Europea, firme promotor de un sistema multi lateral de 
comercio sólido y basado en normas e impulsor de los principios de libre comercio en los que se 
basa esta Organización.  
4.339.   Entrando en materia, y en específico con respecto al ámbito económico, deseamos 
reconocer el crecimiento de la Unión Europea desde el examen anterior realizado en el año 2015, a 
pesar que la evolución comercial y económica ha variado considerablemente de un Estado 
miembro a otro. Durante el período bajo examen, cabe también destacar el debilitamiento del euro 
y el impacto genera do en la economía de los 19 Estados miembros que comparten esta moneda.  
4.340.   Cabe destacar que la Unión Europea es una importante economía con un PIB de 
14,711  billones de euros y una población total de 508 millones de habitantes. El comercio es 
crucial para l a economía de este miembro, al ser el segundo principal exportador e importador de 
mercancías y el mayor exportador e importador de servicios.  
4.341.   Es por ello que existe mucho interés en dar seguimiento cercano a la situación y resultados 
previstos de las neg ociaciones de Brexit, incluyendo el impacto de las mismas a nivel de los 
compromisos multilaterales. Dicho esto, alentamos a la Unión Europea a mantener la 
transparencia a lo largo de este proceso, compartiendo información y abriendo espacios para que 
los miembros interesados puedan expresar sus inquietudes.   
4.342.   Por otra parte, la Unión Europea se destaca también como destino importante y fuente de 
inversiones. En este contexto, es de hacer notar que en octubre de 2015, la Comisión Europea hizo 
pública una nu eva política de comercio e inversión para la Unión Europea denominada "Comercio 
para todos: hacia una política de comercio e inversión más responsable". La nueva política tiene 
por objeto respaldar la expansión de las cadenas de valor mundiales, el comerci o de servicios y el 
comercio electrónico.  
4.343.   A nivel bilateral y regional, la Unión Europea es un socio comercial estratégico para 
El Salvador y el fortalecimiento continuo de nuestras relaciones sigue siendo una prioridad para mi 
país. Con la Unión Europea nos unen lazos de amistad, cooperación y comerciales, los cuales se 
vieron plasmados en el primer Acuerdo de Asociación entre dos regiones, suscrito en conjunto con 
el resto de países de la región Centroamericana. El Acuerdo de Asociación es un importante 
Tratado que no solo potencia nuestra relación bilateral y regional con la Unión Europea, sino las 
relaciones dentro de la región Centroamericana.  
4.344.   En este contexto, destacamos la importante cooperación brindada por la Unión Europea a 
nivel regional, a trav és del Programa de Apoyo a la Calidad y a la aplicación de Medidas Sanitarias 
- PRACAMS; el Programa Regional de Apoyo a la integración económica centroamericana y a la 
implementación del Acuerdo de Asociación - PRAIIA, por mencionar algunos.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.345.   El comercio con la región centroamericana se ha visto impulsado a partir de la firma del 
Acuerdo de Asociación, con exportaciones totales en el 2016 de 4,200 millones de dólares EE.UU. 
versus 3,231 millones de dólares EE.UU. realizadas en 2010, año en que se firmó el Acuerdo, lo 
que representa un aumento del 31%. Por otro lado, las importaciones de Centroamérica desde la 
Unión Europa incrementaron en un 44%, pasando de 3,643 millones de dólares EE.UU. en 2010, a 
5,244 millones de dólares EE.UU. en el 2016.  
4.346.   En lo que r especta al comercio bilateral, el monto de las exportaciones salvadoreñas a la 
Unión Europea ascendieron a más de 127 millones de dólares EE.UU. en el año 2016 y las mismas 
están compuestas principalmente por atún, café, azúcar, melaza y productos de la co nfección, 
entre otros. Por su parte, las importaciones provenientes de la Unión Europea ascendieron a 
625 millones de dólares EE.UU. en el año 2015, las cuales se redujeron en un 30,9% en el año 
2016, en consonancia con la disminución del monto global de l as exportaciones europeas en ese 
año.  
4.347.   En el contexto multilateral, es importante resaltar el liderazgo y la destacada participación 
de la Unión Europea, en los trabajos ordinarios y de negociación que se llevan a cabo en la OMC lo 
cual ha contribuido a al canzar importantes resultados recientes en diversas áreas, incluyendo en 
materia de Facilitación de Comercio y Agricultura. En este sentido, instamos a la Unión Europea a 
continuar contribuyendo a la reducción de las distorsiones en el mercado agrícola, a favor de un 
comercio más justo y equilibrado, en beneficio de todos los agricultores, en especial los de países 
en desarrollo. También instamos a la Unión Europea a simplificar su estructura arancelaria en el 
área agrícola, lo cual promoverá mayor previsib ilidad para los exportadores.  
4.348.   En lo que respecta al área de Medidas Sanitarias y Fitosanitarias y de Obstáculos Técnicos 
al Comercio, si bien reconocemos los esfuerzos realizados por la Unión Europea para armonizar sus 
reglamentos, continuamos dando segui miento con mucho interés algunos proyectos de 
reglamentación de la Unión Europea, así como el impacto de las mismas en las exportaciones de 
países en desarrollo, promoviendo que las mismas no generen restricciones injustificadas al 
comercio y que se basen en evidencia científica.  
4.349.   Igualmente es de señalar la participación activa de la Unión Europea en diferentes 
iniciativas encabezadas por líderes mundiales, encaminadas a discutir temas de actualidad y que 
tienen relevancia con esta Organización. Finalmente , cabe también destacar la importante 
contribución la Unión Europea y sus Estados miembros al fomento de la participación de los países 
en desarrollo en las negociaciones comerciales y el fortalecimiento de sus capacidades, a través de 
fondos de cooperació n.  
4.350.   Agradecemos a la Unión Europea por la respuesta que brindará a las preguntas que 
realizamos, las cuales estaremos enviando a nuestra capital oportunamente para su análisis. 
Estaremos enviando algunas preguntas adicionales en el transcurso de este día.  
4.351.   No me queda desear más que los mejores éxitos a la Unión Europea en este ejercicio de 
política comercial.  
TRINIDAD  AND  TOBAGO  
4.352.   Trinidad and Tobago values the EU as an important economic and social development 
partner and is pleased to participate in this 1 3th review of its trade policies and practices. Our 
active participation in this review is testament to the collaborative and mutually rewarding 
relationship between Trinidad and Tobago and the EU and its Member States.  
4.353.   The trading relationship between Tr inidad and Tobago and the EU is conditioned by the 
Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the Caribbean Forum (CARIFORUM) of the 
African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP) and the European Community and its Member 
States.  
4.354.   Trinidad and Tobag o's trade with the EU can be described as robust and we are heartened 
by the continued growth of the economy of the EU. Trinidad and Tobago has enjoyed a favourable 
balance of trade with the EU over the last five years with the exception of the year 2016. In 2016, WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  the last year for which complete data is available, Trinidad and Tobago saw a trade deficit with the 
EU, and experienced its lowest export figure of the five -year period.  
4.355.   The vagaries of the international financial environment, characterised by un certainty and 
its related challenges, have led to a refocussing of policy towards the diversification of the 
economy of Trinidad and Tobago. My delegation wishes to take this opportunity to express its 
gratitude for the assistance made available by the EU to the national development of Trinidad and 
Tobago, through the facilitation of financial resources under the EU's European Development Fund 
(EDF). The aid allocated in favour of Trinidad and Tobago is aimed at increasing the 
competitiveness and diversific ation of the country's economy. This financial allocation represents 
the EU's support for the Government's priority of multi -sectoral economic development.  
4.356.   As our nation builds production and trade capacity in agriculture and manufacturing, it is 
envisione d that our goods will find markets in the EU through the EPA. Similarly, it is anticipated 
that as capacity is built across several services sectors identified for growth, along with the 
implementation of the agreement between Trinidad and Tobago and the E U on the short -stay visa 
waiver, the services provisions of the EPA will be fully utilised and prove to be mutually beneficial.  
4.357.   With the entry into force of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), Trinidad and Tobago 
welcomes the commitment by the EU to pr ovide the necessary technical assistance to developing 
countries for the implementation of the Agreement. My delegation is confident that such assistance 
will remain an area of priority for the EU.  
4.358.   Trinidad and Tobago is cognizant of developments taking pl ace within the EU but remains 
sanguine that any associated challenges can be overcome advantageously and expeditiously for all 
concerned.  
4.359.   The EU has declared its commitment to the integrity of the multilateral trading system and 
has identified it as the m echanism through which inclusive growth and real progress for the less 
advanced Members of the WTO can be achieved. Trinidad and Tobago anticipates with optimism 
the enlightened leadership and flexibility on the part of the EU. We look forward to a heighte ned 
impetus on the part of the EU for engagement on issues impacting the developing Members of the 
WTO.  
4.360.   My delegation has submitted a number of questions and we thank the EU in advance for its 
written responses.  
4.361.   Trinidad and Tobago wishes the EU a success ful Trade Policy Review.  
ICELAND  
4.362.   For Iceland this TPR is extremely relevant as the EU is our most important trading partner. 
Moreover, Iceland enjoys very deep trade relations with the EU. Being part of the Single Market, 
under the Agreement on the Europea n Economic Area, means that our trade relations are to a 
large extent like between EU Member States themselves. However, we are not part of the Customs 
Union, the Common Agricultural Policy or the Common Fisheries Policy.  
4.363.   In 2016, EU accounted for 72.3% of  our exports in goods and 52.5% of our imports came 
from EU. The share of our trade in services is also important. According to figures from 2015, the 
EU accounted for 47.5% of our exports in services and 64.6% of our imports.  
4.364.   Iceland and the EU have conti nued to deepen their trade relations. Next year, a new 
agreement on trade in Agricultural Products will enter into force where further steps are taken in 
abolishing duties. In addition, the Parties will increase tariff free quotas on the most sensitive 
products. When it comes to Processed Agricultural Products all tariffs will be eliminated except on 
particular dairy products.  
4.365.   That leaves us with fish.  
4.366.   Iceland strongly believes that after almost 25 years of applying the EEA Agreement it is 
about time that w e take the extra step and that the EU abolishes all tariffs on fisheries products in WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  our trade relations. The EU is a net importer of fisheries products. In addition many of these tariffs 
are so low that they hardly make any sense any longer for upholding bureaucracy.  
4.367.   We submitted two written questions to the EU.  
4.368.   Firstly, we strongly believe that we now have a window of opportunity to take meaningful 
steps towards the objective of eliminating harmful fisheries subsidies in line with SDG target 14.6. 
We welc ome the engagement of the EU in the discussions and urge the EU to continue its efforts in 
this regard and refrain from taking any contradictory policy decisions.  
4.369.   Secondly, on the issue of products that are shipped through the customs territory of the 
EU even though the products are destined for another market. This is a real challenge for small 
and medium sized businesses and means on many occasions that these companies end up paying 
duties to the EU for products that are just being shipped through the EU from a third country to 
Iceland. We urge the EU, i.e. as a part of its policy of supporting SME's, to look into measures that 
could be taken to facilitate products passing through its Customs Territory,  
4.370.   Allow me to especially welcome the focus EU places on  gender equality and the economic 
empowerment of women, which is crucial to furthering sustainable development as well as 
economic growth and prosperity. We also applaud the EU for integrating commitments with regard 
to gender equality as an integral part of the Trade and Sustainable Development chapters of the 
EU's recently negotiated free trade agreements and hope that going forward we will start seeing 
commitments of such a nature in FTA's.  
4.371.   Finally, allow me to complement the whole EU team for the enormo us work they have put 
into their TPR and my delegation wishes the EU all the success.  
GUATEMALA  
4.372.   Guatemala y la Unión Europea mantienen una relación muy cercana. Nuestra agenda 
bilateral y regional es extensa y abarca un gran número de áreas, tales como el  diálogo político, 
un amplio programa de cooperación y diversos proyectos que fomentan un régimen comercial 
favorable. Las relaciones institucionales se basan en el diálogo de San José iniciado en 1984, que 
funge como base para el fortalecimiento de la coo peración  los vínculos económicos y la 
integración regional entre la Unión Europea y Centroamérica.  
4.373.   A través de la Estrategia Nacional 2007 -2013, hemos logrado mantener un profundo grado 
de cooperación. Con base en esta estrategia, la UE ha destinado 135 millones de euros a 
programas en Guatemala sobre cohesión social, seguridad de las personas, y desarrollo económico 
comercial.  
4.374.   En el campo comercial, Guatemala y la Unión Europea también han sostenido 
históricamente una relación muy cercana. Desde la déca da de 1970, Guatemala formó parte de los 
países beneficiarios del Sistema Generalizado de Preferencias comerciales (SGP) otorgado por 
dicho bloque a países en desarrollo. Actualmente, nuestras relaciones comerciales se rigen por la 
sección sobre Comercio d el Acuerdo de Asociación Unión Europea -Centroamérica, firmado en 
Tegucigalpa en junio de 2012. Este acuerdo fue negociado entre ambas regiones, con el fin de 
brindar mayor certeza jurídica y profundizar las relaciones comercial, de cooperación y política 
entre Centroamérica y la Unión Europea. La sección comercial entró en vigencia para Guatemala a 
partir de diciembre de 2013 y contempla capítulos sobre comercio de mercancías y servicios, 
integración económica regional y propiedad intelectual, entre otros.   
4.375.   Con el fin de fortalecer el proceso de integración económica centroamericana, la Unión 
Europea ha brindado un importante apoyo a Guatemala través de proyectos que se enmarcan en 
el acuerdo de asociación, tales como el Proyecto de Fortalecimiento de la Po sición de Guatemala 
en los Mercados Internacionales (FOGUAMI) y el Programa regional Al -Invest IV, con el objetivo de 
mejorar la cohesión social entre México y Centroamérica, a través de las PYME y una mejora de la 
competitividad.  
4.376.   La Unión Europea constit uye el quinto destino de las exportaciones guatemaltecas. Las 
principales exportaciones de Guatemala a la UE son el azúcar, el café y el banano. En años WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  recientes otros productos no tradicionales han incursionado con gran éxito en el mercado europeo, 
tales como las plantas ornamentales, las frutas, los mini vegetales y el ron entre otros. Por su 
parte, los principales productos importados de la UE a Guatemala son vehículos, maquinaria, 
agroquímicos y medicamentos.  
4.377.   En relación con el examen de políticas com erciales que hoy nos concierne, resaltamos la 
activa participación de la UE en el ámbito multilateral del comercio, así como la nueva política de 
comercio e inversión. Ésta busca respaldar la expansión de las cadenas de valor, el comercio de 
servicios y el  comercio electrónico. En el ámbito de la facilitación del comercio, el nuevo  código 
aduanero lanzado en 2016 ha fortalecido el programa de Operadores Económicos Autorizados, ha 
contribuido a simplificar los sistemas de almacenes aduaneros y ha mejorado e l marco común de 
gestión de los riesgos. Este es un interesante ejemplo de cooperación aduanera entre todos los 
miembros de la Unión Europea que con el paso del tiempo se ha fortalecido y consolidado.  
4.378.   Un reto importante a corto plazo para la Unión Europea  serán las negociaciones del retiro 
del Reino Unido de esta unión, proceso conocido como BREXIT. Se trata de un tema de gran 
importancia a nivel mundial que esperamos concluya de manera satisfactoria para ambas partes. 
Otros retos importantes que permanece n en la agenda son la mejora de las cifras 
macroeconómicas, la reducción del desempleo y las medidas para fortalecer el crecimiento 
económico de manera integral en todos los países miembros de la UE. En el ámbito agrícola, 
instamos a la Unión Europea a act ualizar su lista de compromisos en materia de subsidios a la 
exportación, de conformidad con los acuerdos alcanzados en la Conferencia Ministerial de Nairobi.  
4.379.   Reconocemos los esfuerzos emprendidos por la Unión Europea durante el período evaluado 
en este ex amen de políticas comerciales. Agradecemos las respuestas remitidas a las preguntas 
planteadas y deseamos a la delegación que hoy los representa, la conclusión exitosa de este 
ejercicio.  
NEW  ZEALAND  
4.380.   Since the European Union (EU)'s last review, the global t rading system has continued to 
face major challenges. Global growth remains sluggish. There has been a concerning increase in 
protectionist sentiment and in measures with protectionist effect in many major markets.  
4.381.   Against this backdrop, the EU's approach  to global trade and investment matters more 
than ever. The EU remains the world's second -largest goods trader, the largest trader in services, 
and an important source of, and destination for, foreign investment. Its continued commitment to 
the effective f unctioning of an open, rules -based multilateral trading system and to an open and 
transparent approach to investment is of fundamental importance to the health of the global 
trading system and to our collective prosperity. New Zealand particularly values t he EU's 
commitment to ensuring the success of MC11, which is highlighted in the range of tables 
submission and proposals this delegation have put forward in the lead up to MC11. New Zealand 
shares the EU's strong desire for MC11 to be a success, defined by  meaningful negotiated 
deliverables. In a world in which international trade is based on ever -expanding global value 
chains, it is important that there be continued expansion, rather than any contraction, in global 
trade flows.  
4.382.   As our third -largest trading  partner, the EU's trade and investment policies have a major 
impact on New Zealanders. New Zealand is therefore pleased at the EU's continued commitment to 
maintaining open trade and investment policies, to working to improve the effectiveness of the 
rules-based trading system, and to continuing internal reforms to enhance its integration and 
international competitiveness. This is evident in its updated trade and investment policy, Trade for 
all: Towards a more responsible trade and investment policy, as w ell as in its continued active 
engagement in the World Trade Organization (WTO).  
4.383.   Recent events have also highlighted the importance of the EU's efforts to forge trade and 
economic links beyond its borders. The EU's continued pursuit of preferential trade agreements 
and its publicly -expressed determination to negotiate with new partners, including New Zealand, 
are welcome. New Zealand is confident that trade agreements linking the EU with the Asia -Pacific 
region (which is expected to remain the key engine o f global growth in the years ahead) will bring 
mutual benefits.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.384.   Positive progress has been made in the EU's internal reform process during this period. We 
welcome the steps taken to further simplify and streamline customs procedures in EU member 
States, in cluding through the new Union Customs Code.  
4.385.   New Zealand also welcomes the efforts made to advance the EU's structural reform 
agenda, while also noting the mixed progress by EU member States in implementing some 
measures. In this regard, New Zealand welcome s the ambitious targets set in the EU's Europe 
2020 strategy for smart, sustainable and inclusive growth for reductions in greenhouse gas 
emissions, including through enhanced energy efficiency and a shift towards renewable energy 
sources. We also look for ward to continuing our cooperation with EU member States as we seek to 
phase out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies.  
4.386.   New Zealand's long -standing concerns about aspects of the Common Agricultural Policy 
(CAP) are well known. We commend the EU's ongoing effor ts to reform the CAP, and in this 
respect note that the EU Commissioner for Agriculture will be announcing initial recommendations 
for post -2020 CAP reform this week. We hope these will include further practical measures by the 
EU to reduce market distorti ons and better equip its farmers to respond to market incentives.   
4.387.   Improvements are particularly needed in market access for agricultural products, where 
the EU retains numerous complex and prohibitive tariffs on highly -traded products. The EU's 
applied t ariffs on agricultural products remain highly variable, and significantly higher than those 
on other products. This situation is especially pronounced for dairy products. The highest tariffs 
actually increased during the period covered, from 635% in 2014 t o almost 700% in 2016. Tariff 
reform thus needs to be part and parcel of domestic reforms - as they should be for any Member 
wishing to develop a more market -oriented and sustainable agriculture.  
4.388.   As with other Members who have raised this in their advanced  questions (and in 
statements today) New Zealand also remains concerned about the EU's approach to domestic 
support in the agricultural sector. We commend recent reforms of the Common Agricultural Policy 
towards less trade -distortive measures and fewer pay ments linked to production. However, the 
provision of support coupled to production – albeit on a voluntary basis – continues, with all EU 
member States but one providing coupled support during this period. Many are doing so well in 
excess of the limits se t by the EU. New Zealand is nevertheless encouraged by the active and 
constructive role EU is playing in WTO agricultural negotiations towards an outcome on domestic 
support.  
4.389.   We also note the continued active use of price support measures by the EU. In th e dairy 
sector, this has resulted in the accumulation of significant levels of intervention stocks, which have 
the potential to seriously impact on global prices if released into the market.  
4.390.   Taken together, these measures are clearly out of step with the E U's broader approach to 
trade and economic policy. They undermine the EU's stated goals of deepening the integration of 
the internal EU market and achieving a greater market orientation for the agricultural sector. And 
they undermine the livelihoods of pro ducers beyond the EU's borders. We encourage the EU to 
address these anomalies as a matter of urgency by taking steps to move all support to less 
distortive, decoupled alternatives and to steer the EU agricultural sector towards a more 
sustainable, market -oriented future.   
4.391.   It is encouraging that processes are now in place to prevent illegal fishers benefiting from 
EU subsidies, and that the EU will ensure all its overfished stocks are recovered by no later than 
2020. New Zealand takes this opportunity to r ecall the importance we attach to on -going 
negotiations in this house aimed at addressing harmful fisheries subsidies. We look forward to 
working closely with the EU in that process as we work towards an outcome at MC11. At the same 
time, New Zealand urges  the EU to continue reform of its Common Fisheries Policy to ensure that 
EU money does not contribute to overcapacity and overfishing globally. We urge particular care in 
considering any new support measures, such as the reintroduction of vessel constructi on subsidies 
called for in the European Parliament's resolution of 27 April 2017.  
4.392.   New Zealand continues to take a close interest in developments in the EU's public 
procurement regime. We note that the majority of EU member States have not met the 24 month WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  deadline for transposing the three directives on public procurement into national law, and 
encourage all EU member States to do so without delay.  
4.393.   In conclusion, we welcome the EU's continued commitment to maintaining its broadly open 
and market -orientated approach to international trade policy, and encourage it to take further 
steps to strengthen its approach in key areas. This is vital not only for the health of the global 
economy and the multilateral trading system, but also for the EU's own quest for job s, growth and 
investment.  
MALAYSIA  
4.394.   We associate ourselves with the statement made by Singapore on behalf of ASEAN.  
4.395.   We note that since the last review in July 2015, the EU has experienced a volatile 
macroeconomic environment with economic growth that has sl owed down from 2.2% in 2015 to 
1.8% in 2016. We also note from the Secretariat report that the EU's economy has continued its 
gradual improvement albeit uneven economic recovery since the financial crisis, and has not 
rebounded as fast as some other large economies.  
4.396.   While we welcome the track record of the EU's trade and investment policies, we share the 
concerns already mentioned by other Members and as reported by the Secretariat, particularly on 
uncertain impact of Brexit and unjustified trade barriers.   
4.397.   We note EU's new trade and investment policy – "Trade for all: Towards a more 
responsible trade and investment policy". Given that the new policy is intended to support the 
growth of global value chain service trade and e -commerce, we seek further clarif ication as to how 
the new policy will affect EU developing trade partners.  
4.398.   We call on the EU to provide the needed leadership together with other key Members to 
ensure a successful 2017 Ministerial Conference. Notably the EU is supporting the initiative b y a 
group of developing countries for a timely deliverable on Medium, Small and Micro Enterprises 
(MSMEs). The participation of MSMEs in international trade has emerged as an important issue in 
the WTO agenda.  
4.399.   We commend EU's proactive contribution and pr oposals in many of the WTO committees 
which have significantly enriched discussions as Members deliberate on mutually beneficial and 
deliverables at the MC11. We thus would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Ambassador 
Marc Vanheukelen and his t eam for their very active engagement.  
4.400.   Being a major exporter of palm oil products to the EU, Malaysia continues to have strong 
concern over EU's increasingly restrictive measures on palm oil. The latest adoption of the 
Resolution on Palm Oil and Deforestat ion of Rainforest by the European Parliament on 4 April 2017 
discriminates palm oil by singling out oil palm cultivation as being the largest contributor to 
deforestation. Such move is protectionist in nature and unjustifiable which undermines the 
principl e of the multilateral trading system.  
4.401.   The Resolution, if implemented as it is, would have negative repercussion on the palm oil 
industry of developing countries and does not reflect the stated commitment by the EU towards 
meeting the Sustainable Developmen t Goals which objective is to address poverty and raising the 
income levels of farmers. While we note the EU's commitments to sustainable development as all 
of us are, measures such as the single certification of only sustainably -produced palm oil for the 
EU market, would have a major impact on our small producers.  
4.402.   The palm oil industry has benefited millions of small farmers not only in Malaysia, but also 
in countries such as Indonesia and Thailand, in ASEAN and others. 40% of palm oil plantations in 
Malay sia are owned or farmed by small farmers that have benefited from oil palm cultivation as a 
route out of poverty in rural communities. The palm oil industry has been a major factor in 
Malaysia reducing her poverty level from 50% in the 1960s, down to less than 5% today, being 
the largest employer.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.403.   Malaysia's sustainability efforts have been globally recognized and Malaysia is committed 
to preserve 62% of land as forest cover – an unparalleled environmental commitment, recognized 
by the United Nations and t he World Bank. It is an important fact that 23% of this forest land is 
set aside for protection and conservation while 70% of the total forest area remains permanent; 
which means it can never be put into agriculture or human development.  
4.404.   The palm oil indus try in Malaysia is one which is well -regulated and we would like to 
reiterate that Malaysia's palm oil industry subscribes to sustainable practices. We therefore urge 
the EU to recognize the certification of the Sustainable Palm Oil Schemes which is a mani festation 
of our commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.  
4.405.   Bilaterally, Malaysia's total trade with the EU for 2016 was at €32.5 billion, a slight 
increase from the previous year. Exports by Malaysia were valued at €17.4 billion with imports at 
Euro 15.1 billion.  
4.406.   On investment, the EU continues to be one of Malaysia's top source of foreign direct 
investment. As of 2016, EU me mber States have invested €20.6 billion, creating almost 
180,000  jobs. Among the largest source of investment are from the United Kingdom, Germany, 
France, the Netherlands and Belgium.  
4.407.   In efforts to strengthen our bilateral trade relations, the Malaysia -EU Free Trade 
Agreement (MEUFTA) negotiation was launched in 2010. Unfortunately, there has been little 
progress since then and we look forward to a resumption of negotiations with the recent political 
commitment made by our leaders.  
4.408.   To conclude, we thank th e EU's response to our questions which is being studied at the 
Capital. We will also be submitting additional questions and we look forward to receiving the 
feedback later.  
4.409.   We wish the EU a fruitful and successful 13th Trade Policy Review.  
THAILAND  
4.410.   In sta rting off, Thailand would like to associate itself with ASEAN's statement delivered by 
Ambassador Tan of Singapore.  
4.411.   The EU continues to be very influential in world trade as one of the world's largest 
exporters and importers. It is not a surprise that for Thailand the EU remains an ever -important 
trading partner. In 2016 the EU was Thailand's third largest trading partner in the world, with 
trade value of 40.1 billion US dollars, a growth rate of 1.1% from 2015. The EU was Thailand's 3rd 
largest export dest ination and import source in 2016 with total exports valued at US$21.9 billion 
with machineries, electrical machineries, automobiles, gems and jewelleries, and rubber being the 
king products. Import wise, Thailand imported from the EU to the value of US$18 .2 billion with 
machineries, electrical machineries, aircrafts, automobiles, and pharmaceutical products as the 
main imports. 2016 have seen growths on both imports and exports and we are optimistic that 
this trend can continue.  
4.412.    We are pleased to note tha t the EU's economy continues to grow gradually since the 
financial crisis to achieve a GDP growth of 2.2% in 2015 with domestic consumption as the main 
factor for growth.  
4.413.   We also commends the EU's advanced and efficient customs procedures and welcomes the 
new Union Customs Code (UCC) which aims to further facilitate trade through improvements to 
the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme, simplification of the systems for customs 
warehouses, free zones, and temporary storage, to name a few.  
4.414.   Thailand i s also pleased to note that the EU's overall average applied MFN tariff has 
declined to 6.3% in 2016 as a result of the ITA expansion. Nevertheless, protection in the 
agricultural sector still remains with simple average tariffs on agricultural products be ing 
10 percentage points higher than those non -agricultural products and numerous agricultural 
products continues to be subjected to on -ad valorem tariffs.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.415.   On SPS and TBT, the EU is a member that has established numerous SPS and TBT 
measures throughout th e years. While we support the EU's right to strengthen public health and 
protect the environment, such measures can be disruptive to trade and sometimes prohibitive. In 
this regard, we urge the EU to follow the principle of risk based assessments rather th an hazard 
based approach in determining the application of these measures.  
4.416.    The EU has always been an immense contributor to the WTO, both in the regular work 
and in various negotiations. We hope that the EU will continue to play a leading role as we push 
for a meaningful package in MC 11 in Buenos Aires.  
4.417.   In conclusion, Thailand would like to express its appreciation to the EU delegation for 
today's presentation. We are thankful for the cooperation with the EU at every level and wish the 
EU every success in  its 13th Trade Policy Review.  
TURKEY  
4.418.   The EU has a leading role in shaping today's global trade policies. In doing so, the EU does 
not only contribute actively to the multilateral system, but also engages extensively in bilateral 
and regional initiatives.  
4.419.   We are pleased to see the continuation of a sustained economic recovery and reduced 
unemployment since the last review. However, significant divergences of these economic 
indicators among the member States remain a source of concern for the continuation of  the 
sustainability of economic growth.  
4.420.   Some important and necessary steps have been implemented for the completion of the 
banking and financial union during the review period. However, a similar degree of coordination is 
still needed in fiscal policies am ong the member states, for the implementation of an efficient 
policy mix to support the economic growth.  
4.421.   It is worth to note that for the coming review period, the most important economic and 
policy change for the EU will be the Brexit. Although the outcom e of the negotiations is ambiguous, 
we think that the Brexit process adds uncertainty regarding the future economic performance and 
policies of the EU.  
4.422.   The recent decision of the European Court of Justice about the conclusion of the 
EU-Singapore free trade  agreement and the debate about the competences of the EU Commission 
with respect to trade agreement negotiations are sources of unpredictability for the trading 
partners of the EU. We would like to underline the importance of solving this issue in due cou rse 
for the credibility of the EU as a whole.  
4.423.   The EU is the most important trading partner of Turkey, while Turkey is the 5th most 
important trading partner of the EU. In 2016, Turkey -EU trade reached a volume of US$146 
billion, which accounted 43% of Turk ey's total trade.  
4.424.   All initiatives taken by the EU both in the multilateral and bilateral platforms have direct 
impact on Turkey. This stems from the unique relation between Turkey and the EU, which is 
marked by first the Customs Union and then candidacy fo r the EU membership.  
4.425.   One of the most important aspects of the Customs Union is the requirement for Turkey to 
align with EU legislation particularly in the trade and trade related areas.  
4.426.   Thus as a Customs Union partner and a candidate country, Turkey has a unique position in 
which in most cases it aligns and implements the EU's trade legislation practically like an EU 
member state.  
4.427.   Turkey and the EU have a natural economic integration due to their geographic and 
historic ties. The Customs Union between the p arties has institutionalized this natural integration 
and has been beneficial for both parties for establishing efficient global value chains, together with 
the network of the free trade agreements in the Mediterranean region and the Pan -Euromed 
System of Cumulation of Origin.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.428.   However, the Customs Union of more than 20 years old falls behind the ambition of our 
bilateral economic ties. In this vein, we have put in place a strong will to modernize and upgrade 
the Customs Union to reflect the current needs an d challenges.  
4.429.   Within the context of the update of the Customs Union negotiations, the target is to 
expand the scope of preferential trade and economic relations between the parties through 
bilateral market opening in the areas of agriculture, services, pu blic procurement and e -commerce 
and to improve the functioning of the Customs Union.  
4.430.   We strongly hope to move forward smoothly in this process for the success of our 
economic relations in the future. I strongly believe that this process will also cement t he 
membership process of Turkey to the EU.  
4.431.   With respect to the trade policy regime of the EU, Turkey submitted a number of written 
questions in advance, seeking further clarification on policy direction and approach. We look 
forward to receiving responses in due course.  
4.432.   We wish the EU a successful Trade Policy Review.  
ISRAEL  
4.433.   The European Union trade is of critical importance for its members and for the world. With 
exports and imports of goods valued at €3.5 Trillion and services at €1.5 Trillion it remains the 
largest trading partner for many Members. This fact holds also true to Israel as the EU is our 
second biggest trading partner with a bilateral trade amounting €34 billion in 2016, with a positive 
trend upwards from €30 billion in 2014, and with a trade  balance in favour of the EU. The 
composition of our trade includes: agricultural products, raw materials, chemicals, machinery and 
transport equipment, other semi manufactured products and a vast array of services. Regarding 
foreign direct investment in 2 015, the EU's FDI stock reached €44.9 billion, and Israel's FDI stock 
in the EU reached €16.7 billion.  
4.434.   We are pleased to observe that the European Union has continued with a positive growth 
trajectory. While the growth rate and internal demand have improved, some very significant 
challen ges still remain in terms of generating employment, an area where some EU member 
States have succeeded better than others. EU -wide trade policy and common legislation in most 
trade-related areas has helped to streamline commerce and cement trade at the cor e of the EU's 
interests as demonstrated by its commitment to the rules -based global trading system and its 
resistance to protectionism.  
4.435.   Nevertheless, Tariffs on agricultural products remain higher (simple average of 14.1%) 
than on non -agricultural products  (4.3%). However, the tariff profile does not necessarily tell the 
whole story of market access in the EU given that it has a vast network of preferential trade 
agreements and unilateral facilities extended to developing and least -developed countries.  
4.436.   On SPS, we would like to once again express a concern we share with various Members in 
relation to the latest developments in the EU Plant Protection Regulations, specifically regarding 
Endocrine Disruptors and the EU latest choice of the second option in the  Endocrine Disruptors 
Roadmap for the purpose of the Pesticides (EC 1107/2009) and Biocides ((EU) 528/2012) 
Regulations. Together with other delegations, Israel is concerned with the fact that the criteria do 
not include the element of potency and it is a hazard -based criteria rather than a risk -based 
criteria. We expressed this concern in writing and we look forward to hearing more details on the 
status of the proposal on endocrine disruptors and how it would solve the various concerns around 
the issue.  
4.437.   On TBT, we would like to echo a concern in relation to the significant negative impact of 
various aspects of the REACH initiative on SMEs (including the restrictive definition), among others 
the "Only Representative" (OR) and "Letter of Access" (LoA) provisi ons which signify high costs for 
their volume of business, as well as the 2018 registration deadline for substances manufactured or 
imported below the 100 tonnes which would impact a large number of our exporters in a sector of 
essential importance to us.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.438.   We would additionally like to note a concern we have regarding Market Authorization of 
medicinal products in the context of the UK's decision to depart from the EU. The UK has been one 
of the leading Member States acting as a Reference Member State in the  context of pan -European 
approval procedures for medicines, providing hundreds of marketing authorizations every year. 
The withdrawal of the UK from the EU may cause severe problems for the companies relying on 
these Authorizations and Israel is interested  in learning what measures the EU would consider to 
mitigate such potentially serious externalities affecting its partners. We have submitted a specific 
question on this regard as well.  
4.439.   The EU and Israel share similar views regarding multilateral trade lib eralisation and we 
have worked alongside on a large number of issues in the WTO and on a bilateral and plurilateral 
bases. Plurilaterally, we are parties to the Revised GPA and the ITA expansion, while we are also 
parties in the negotiations of the Environ mental Goods Agreement and of the Trade in Services 
Agreement. Services is one of the many areas where Israel has worked closely together with the 
EU with the aim of advancing the WTO discussions and of arriving to Buenos Aires with good 
prospects of deliv erables in this area.  
4.440.   On Fisheries we have expressed support for the EU's proposal which primarily seeks to 
prohibit subsidies linked to overcapacity and highlights the importance of transparency in notifying 
all kinds of direct or indirect subsidies to fi shing activity.  
4.441.   We would be remiss if we did not make a point about the positive leadership drive that the 
EU infuses into the WTO negotiations and workings. Be that by tabling important proposals or 
engaging seriously in discussions - these initiatives ar e very welcomed and desirable. Furthermore, 
for the sake of the negotiations, we expect the EU to continue with this constructive ambition in 
the lead up to MC11 in Buenos Aires. Finally, we would like to congratulate again Mr. Korte from 
the EC and Ambass ador Vanheukelen and his team with which we enjoy an excellent cooperation 
and wish them all a very successful trade policy review.  
KINGDOM  OF SAUDI  ARABIA  
4.442.   The European Union is a unique partnership in which member States have pooled 
sovereignty in certain  policy areas and harmonized laws on a wide range of economic and political 
issues. The EU is largely viewed as a cornerstone of European stability and prosperity.  
4.443.   However, during the period of review, the EU faced a range of challenges such as the 
United  Kingdom decision to leave the EU; the Greek debt crisis; and the ongoing migrant and 
refugee flows. Despite the impact of all these difficult issues, the EU economy remained resilient, 
open and transparent. The EU GDP is expected to grow by 1.5% in 2017 a nd by 1.7% in 2018 on 
the back of a recovery in exports and solid domestic demand supported by sustained 
improvements in employment.  
4.444.   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia commends the EU for its economic strategy based on fiscal 
responsibility, investment and struc tural reforms. During the period of review, significant economic 
and financial reforms were undertaken including new trade and investment policy for the EU – 
Trade for all: towards a more responsible trade and investment policy. It is worth emphasizing 
that this new policy aimed to support the growth of global value chains, services trade, and 
e-commerce.  
4.445.   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia also commends EU for its recognition of the benefits of trade 
facilitation and welcomes its efforts and support for aid for t rade.  
4.446.   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the European Union enjoy friendly and substantive 
economic and trading relationship. The volume of bilateral trade exchange reached close to 
€53 billion in 2016. There is significant potential for economic ties to gro w between the two trading 
partners especially in finance and investment, insurance, communication, consulting, oil and gas, 
petrochemical, pharmaceutical, food processing, building materials, electricity, iron and aluminum 
metals.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.447.   The importance of trade t o the EU is reflected in its commitment to the WTO and the 
multilateral trading system. The EU plays a central role in the establishment of an open and 
inclusive trading system.  
4.448.   I wish the entire EU delegation a very successful Trade Policy Review.   
SRI LANKA  
4.449.   My delegation notes with interest the European Union's continued economic advancements 
recovering moderately since the financial crisis although developments at each member level has 
varied substantially. The EU continues to be an important player in  global trade in terms of trade 
in goods, services and also being the largest trading partner for over 80 countries.  
4.450.   The trade and investment policy initiatives introduced in October 2015 by the EU, with the 
focus on the growth of global value chains, ser vices trade, and e -commerce has been instrumental 
for setting its objectives around non -tariff barriers, trade in services, benefits from improved 
technology to facilitate cross -border trade, recognizing the importance of labour mobility and 
mutual recogni tion of professional qualifications.  
4.451.   We note with great interest the EU's policy developments of Single market strategy, 
Modernization of the European standardization system, Common agricultural policy, new customs 
procedures, new measures for fair taxatio n, implementation of the EU environmental action 
programme, Ensuring responsible management of supply chains and Common Fisheries Policy.  
4.452.   It is also interested to note the slight decline in the applied tariff over the last review 
period, as a result of exp anded list of ITA products. EU continues to provide non -reciprocal 
preferences under the GSP, GSP+, to over 6,000 tariff lines.  
4.453.   With regard to bilateral relations between EU and Sri Lanka, EU has been a development 
partner for Sri Lanka since signing of th e Commercial Cooperation Agreement in 1975, which was 
replaced with the Cooperation Agreement on Partnership and Development in 1995. The 
EU-Sri Lanka Joint Commission meets every year to discuss bilateral political, trade and 
development maters of mutual interest.  
4.454.   The European Commission has provided over €375 million of assistance to Sri Lanka during 
the period from 2000 to 2013 under the various projects on trade and development, post -tsunami 
reconstruction and rehabilitation, and humanitarian assistance.  
4.455.   The most recent assistance of €8 million for trad e related capacity building which was 
launched in November 2016 will focus on development of a National Export Strategy for Sri Lanka, 
enhancing efficiency of cross -border procedures, improving compliance and quality infrastructure 
services, increasing SME  competitiveness and selected product sector developments.  
4.456.   EU continues to be the number one destination for Sri Lankan exports absorbing over 1/3 
of its total exports. The total trade between Sri Lanka and EU was US$5.2 billion in 2016. Apparels 
are the m ajor export item with a share of 61%. With regard to imports, EU has been a major 
supplier aircraft, spacecraft, iron, steel articles; medical or surgical instruments; medicaments to 
Sri Lanka.  
4.457.   A quarter of total FDI to Sri Lanka comes from EU. Germany, It aly, Belgium, France and 
Sweden are the major investment partners which have invested in diverse sectors of Sri Lanka.  
4.458.   Sri Lanka has regained the benefits of EU GSP+ since May 2017. In this regard, I take this 
opportunity to extend my Government's appreci ation to the Trade Directorate of the European 
Commission for its positive consideration for restoring the GSP Plus facility for Sri Lanka. We also 
appreciate constructive engagement with DG -MARE of European Commission on improving the 
fisheries management  in Sri Lanka in particular to improve the monitoring system, stock and 
harbour management of Sri Lanka in addressing the IUU fishing issues. I also recall my 
Government's constructive engagements with Food and Veterinary Office of the EU, in identifying 
causes for regular interceptions of fruit and vegetable exports to EU.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.459.   In concluding, my delegation appreciates the EU's highly valued contribution to the 
multilateral trading system and its active engagement in the negotiations. The dynamic role played 
by Ambassador Marc Vanheukelen and his team in Geneva in proactively engaging in ongoing 
activities of WTO, is highly commendable. We sincerely wish the EU delegation a successful 
deliberation on its 13th Trade Policy Review.  
MAURITIUS  
4.460.   Despite a flurry of pol itical events, uncertainties, cyclical downturn and upturns, that have 
characterized developments in the EU Member States, the economic pundits paint a positive 
picture for growth and recovery. Unemployment rates are being abated, structural and regulatory  
reforms are being pursued including improvements in the business environment.  
4.461.   New avenues and trade opportunities continue to be prospected by the EU and Mauritius 
has been participating actively together with the EU in some of the negotiations at the WTO  such 
as ITA 2, TISA and we await our adhesion to the EGA.  
4.462.   We welcome the European Union for its new trade and investment policy for the EU – 
Trade for all: towards a more responsible trade and investment policy and commend its laudable 
efforts towards pro moting inclusive trade by ensuring that the benefits for trade are shared more 
equally. We note with interest the emphasis placed in this new trade policy on the growth of global 
value chains, the increased importance of services trade, and the growth of e -commerce, a 
promising area for SMEs to expand their markets, which also mirrors key aspects of our current 
trade aspirations.  
4.463.   We welcome the measures taken to reduce non -tariff barriers and we encourage the EU to 
pursue its efforts towards greater transpa rency and coherence in its trade policies particularly in 
areas relating to standards and technical requirements, SPS, and customs reforms.  
4.464.   We share a long history of economic and trade cooperation with the EU, which remains our 
biggest trading partner, a key development partner and our first source of Foreign Direct 
Investment inflows.  
4.465.   The current legal framework for trade between Mauritius and the EU is the interim 
Economic Partnership Agreement (IEPA), a WTO compatible agreement encompassing a market 
access offer, provisions on trade in goods, fisheries as well as development component. The IEPA 
has been an important instrument to secure market access to the EU but we believe that it is 
crucial now to move towards the conclusion of a comprehensive agreeme nt which would include 
other trade related aspects such as SPS, TBT, Trade Facilitation, Services and Investment similarly 
to the innovative FTAs being concluded by the EU.  
4.466.   It is undeniable that Brexit will impact the trade dynamic between the EU and other  WTO 
members including Mauritius as a likely source of trade disruption. In the immediate aftermath of 
the Brexit vote, we have already experienced a loss of export revenues due to the depreciation of 
the pound.  
4.467.   Mauritius presently benefits from full duty free and quota free access to both the UK and 
other EU markets under the IEPA. We are of the view that the preferential access for countries 
implementing the EPA/IEPA should be maintained after Brexit.  
4.468.   We also strongly believe that the EU should maintain a  structured relationship with the ACP 
and, following the expiry of the Cotonou Agreement in 2020, conclude a legally binding 
agreement, building on the acquis of the Lomé Conventions and the Cotonou Agreement. Such an 
agreement would also include areas of interest to the parties such as global value chains, climate 
change, WTO issues, measures to combat terrorism as well as the implementation of the SDGs 
amongst others.  
4.469.   We look forward to working closely with the delegation of EU with a view to making 
significant progress at the WTO and at MC11. We share the same objectives of multilateralism and 
the centrality of the WTO. We believe in the necessity for equitable outcomes. Mauritius will 
participate actively in the negotiations with a view to reaching fair and balanced outcomes.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  BÉNIN  
4.470.   La délégation du Bénin s'associe à la déclaration faite par le Cambodge au nom du Groupe 
des Pays les moins avancés (PMA).  
4.471.   La délégation du Bénin salue les performances enregistrées par l'Union européenne depuis 
le dernier Exam en de ses politiques commerciales, traduites notamment par une croissance 
estimée à 1,8% en 2016 et la reprise notée sur le marché du travail.  
4.472.   L'Union européenne est un acteur majeur de l'économie mondiale et du système 
commercial multilatéral. Elle est ég alement l'un des défenseurs connus du régime de commerce 
ouvert et axé sur les règles.  
4.473.   Elle reste également engagée en faveur de la promotion de la réalisation des Objectifs de 
développement durable à l'Horizon 2030 en soutenant les efforts des pays faible s et vulnérables 
dans l'environnement économique mondial, et les Pays les moins avancés (PMA), en particulier.  
4.474.   Dans la publication en 2015 par la Commission européenne de la nouvelle politique 
commerciale et d'investissement pour l'Union européenne, intitu lée "le commerce pour tous : vers 
une politique de commerce et d'investissement plus responsable" sont identifiés les grands axes et 
orientations fixés par l'Union européenne pour un commerce plus inclusif, source de croissance, et 
respectueux de la protec tion de l'environnement.  
4.475.   La délégation du Bénin voudrait toutefois souligner, comme le relève également le 
Secrétariat de l'OMC dans son rapport, que la politique agricole de l'Union européenne n'a pas 
fondamentalement changé pendant la période considérée . C'est pourquoi elle voudrait 
recommander que l'Union européenne poursuive ses efforts visant à améliorer les règles, principes 
et mécanismes qui encadrent l'activité de production et d'échange des produits agricoles et dans 
d'autres secteurs, afin de res ter dans le jeu d'une concurrence qui permette à d'autres pays 
producteurs de produits agricoles stratégiques, de différentes natures, dont le coton, de tirer 
réellement avantage de ces activités et de prendre en compte effectivement la dimension de 
dévelo ppement dans les résultats de nos travaux.  
4.476.   La délégation du Bénin apprécie hautement la contribution constructive que l'Union 
européenne et ses États Membres apportent aux travaux de négociations commerciales du Cycle 
de Doha pour la prise en compte des b esoins et priorités des pays en développement, en 
particulier ceux des Pays les moins avancés (PMA).  
4.477.   Elle exhorte l'Union européenne et ses États Membres à poursuivre dans cette bonne voie 
pour la mise en œuvre des résultats des dernières Conférences Mini stérielles de l'OMC à Bali et à 
Nairobi, ainsi que pour la recherche de résultats consensuels, mesurables et équilibrés sur les 
autres questions d'ici à la 11ème Conférence ministérielle de l'Organisation, à Buenos Aires, à la 
fin de cette année.  
4.478.   Elle sais it cette occasion pour remercier l'Union européenne et ses États membres pour 
leurs contributions aux ressources du Programme du cadre intégré renforcé (CIR), et les assure 
que les PMA bénéficiaires, dont le Bénin, reconnaissent et apprécient à sa bonne va leur 
l'importance dudit Programme qui soutient le renforcement des capacités de production et 
d'exportation de cette catégorie de pays, et représente un réel instrument de lutte contre la 
pauvreté.  
4.479.   Au niveau bilatéral, le Bénin entretient d'excellentes rel ations économiques, commerciales, 
politiques, sociales et culturelles avec l'Union européenne et ses États membres.  
4.480.   La délégation du Bénin se félicite du niveau très apprécié et de la qualité de l'assistance 
technique et financière que l'Union européenne apporte à la République du Bénin. Les appuis en 
faveur de la maîtrise des agrégats macroéconomiques et des contraintes financières, du 
renforcement des capacités de production, de transformation et d'exportation du Bénin sont très 
appréciés du Gouvernement  et du Peuple béninois.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.481.   La délégation du Bénin invite l'Union européenne à poursuivre son appui aux efforts du 
Gouvernement de la République du Bénin en faveur du développement socioéconomique à travers 
la contribution à la mise en œuvre du nouveau Program me d'actions du Gouvernement.  
4.482.   Elle félicite l'Ambassadeur, Représentant Permanent de l'Union européenne auprès de 
l'OMC, Son Excellence Monsieur Marc VANHEUKELEN, et toute son équipe, pour leur engagement 
constructif dans les travaux de négociations commer ciales multilatérales et pour les interactions 
compréhensives qu'ils font avec les autres délégations, en particulier celles des PMA.  
4.483.   La délégation du Bénin remercie le Secrétariat de l'OMC et la Commission de l'Union 
européenne pour les rapports très info rmatifs élaborés dans le cadre de la présente Session 
d'Examen des politiques commerciales de l'Union européenne.  
4.484.   Elle souhaite plein succès à l'Union européenne et un examen réussi de ses politiques 
commerciales.  
PHILIPPINES  
4.485.   The Philippines associates it self with the ASEAN statement delivered by Ambassador Tan 
Yee Woan of Singapore, which recognizes 40 years of strong and growing trade and investment 
ties between ASEAN and the European Union.  
4.486.   The Philippines and the European Union have longstanding econom ic relations. The EU is 
one of the largest foreign investment partners of the Philippines and is its 4th largest trading 
partner, with total bilateral trade of US$13.2 billion in 2016.  
4.487.   The Philippines is a beneficiary of the EU Generalized Scheme of Prefer ences (GSP), and 
was granted further preferences under the GSP+ in December 2014. This translates into duty -free 
entry for 6,274 tariff lines. Out of total Philippine exports to the EU of €6 billion in 2016, exports 
using GSP+ preferences amounted to about €1.7 billion — an increase from €1.58 billion in 2015. 
As a result, the country's GSP utilization rate further improved to 71% in 2016 from 68% in 2015. 
The Philippines is committed to ma intain its GSP+ beneficiary status. As a developmental tool, 
GSP+ fosters income growth, supports employment creation, and ultimately contributes to 
countryside development and inclusive economic growth.  
4.488.   Negotiations for an EU -Philippines Free Trade Agreem ent were also launched in 
December  2015, which seeks to develop the overall relationship between the Philippines and the 
EU, taking off from the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement signed in 2012. The FTA aims to 
cover issues of mutual interest, includin g tariffs, non -tariff barriers, trade in services, investment, 
as well as trade -related aspects of public procurement, intellectual property, competition, and 
sustainable development. Through the FTA, the Philippines seeks to increase its presence in the E U 
market. The Philippines notes the good progress achieved in the first two rounds of negotiations 
and emphasizes the importance of sustaining this momentum, so as not to lose track of the 
progress made since the launch of scoping exercises in 2013.  
4.489.   The P hilippines recognizes the EU's important role in the multilateral trading system as a 
key player in global trade. Its foresight and global openness in engaging vulnerable developing 
countries through the GSP and the Everything But Arms initiative, as well as through free trade 
agreements and economic partnership agreements, are instrumental in supporting sustainable 
development and good governance in developing countries.  
4.490.   The Philippines notes the EU's recognition of the important role of Micro, Small and 
Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in achieving inclusive and sustainable growth, and looks forward to 
engaging the EU in the informal dialogue on enhancing the participation of MSMEs in international 
trade by making markets more open and friendly to micro and smal l businesses.  
4.491.   In closing, the Philippines has submitted some written questions and we would like to 
thank EU in advance for their responses. We would also like to congratulate Deputy 
Director -General Joost Korte, Ambassador Marc Vanheukelen and the entire EU delegation for its 
13th trade policy review. Our appreciation also goes to Ambassador Roberto Zapata Barradas of WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  Mexico for his insightful comments as discussant and to the Secretariat for preparing a 
comprehensive report.  
MYANMAR  
4.492.   Myanmar associates its elf with the statements delivered by the ASEAN and the LDCs.  
4.493.   Let me begin by expressing our bilateral trade and investment relations with the EU. The 
volume of trade in goods between Myanmar and the EU reached over US$676 million in 2015 -2016 
and over US$ 1,456 million in 2016 -2017. Our key export products to the EU are dominated by 
garment with over 62% of total export and agricultural products. Our major import products from 
the EU are machinery and appliances, chemical products, and transport equipment.  
4.494.   In terms of foreign direct investment, EU was the 4th largest foreign investor with around 
10% of total investment in Myanmar.  
4.495.   Since 2013, all EU sanctions were lifted and Myanmar exporters have enjoyed trade 
preferences under the "Everything But Arms" sc heme, which allows duty free and quota free 
access to the single European market.  
4.496.   The European Union is a large and opened economy with a total GDP of €14,711 billion. 
Their economy has continued to grow since last Trade Policy Review in 2015.  
4.497.   The EU shar ed the second -largest of both export and import of the world trade in goods as 
well as the largest exporter and importer of trade in services. The EU issued a new trade and 
investment policy which has intended to support the growth of global value chains, services trade, 
and e -commerce.  
4.498.   We are enlightened to note that the EU has exclusive competence over the customs union 
and all customs procedures were electronic and cleared within one hour. The main provision of the 
new Union Customs Code (UCC) which has  been applied on 1 May 2016 to replace the Community 
Customs Code of 1992 with the aims of simplifying and modernizing customs procedures, bringing 
the rules into line with the EU treaties and to moving towards harmonized IT process.  
4.499.   In terms of tariff re gime, the simple average applied MFN tariff rate in 2016 was 6.3% and 
it was slightly lower than 2014. The EU applied the expanded list of ITA products and adjusted its 
nomenclature.  
4.500.   The EU is a major preference granting member of WTO. It has a comprehens ive network of 
arrangements for preferential trade with free trade agreements and non -reciprocal preferences 
under the GSP, GSP+, and Everything -but-Arms regimes.  
4.501.   The EU introduced new regulations of anti -dumping and countervailing measures in 2016. 
New r egulations on safeguards were introduced in 2015. These new regulations were a 
consolidation of earlier regulations and amendments. The EU is the most frequent users of 
contingency measures among the WTO Members.  
4.502.   The EU also introduced new legislation on a nimal health, plant pests, and official controls 
in 2016 aiming to simplify and modernize existing legislation on the food chain. However, there 
were no major change to the laws on technical requirements, standards, and other related issues. 
Similarly, the  basic legislation on competition policy in the EU remains unchanged during the 
review period.  
4.503.   Although Agricultural policies did not change significantly, the EU has fully applied the 
Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) since 2015. In fisheries sector, the E U reformed the Common 
Fisheries Policy which took effect on 1 January 2014.  
4.504.   In financial services, the EU completed reforms measures by 2015 which were undertaken 
following the 2008 -2009 financial crises. The EU adopted a new regulation on securities fina ncing 
transactions in 2015 and a new regulation was adopted in 2017. In addition, the EU adopted a 
long-term investment funds and financial benchmarks.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.505.   The EU is functioning as a single economy with common import duties, import and export 
procedures and in vestment rules. Harmonization of many measures of EU including customs 
procedures, technical requirements, and SPS measures can facilitate access to the EU market and 
reduce some costs. However, some requirements of the EU may add to the cost of doing busi ness 
in some cases. The EU is still practicing relatively highly protected their agriculture of policy and 
therefore, we would like to encourage the EU to consider the policy of allowing the LDCs to widely 
access towards the EU market.  
4.506.   The EU is a very im portant player and active supporter for both regional and multilateral 
trading system. We want to see continuous and effective support of the EU to the WTO especially 
in strengthening its rules -based trading system. We look forward to continuing the strong  
relationship with the EU and all members to reinforce bilateral and global trade in a fair and 
inclusive manner.  
4.507.   In conclusion, we wish the delegation of the every success in their 13th Trade Policy 
Review.  
NEPAL  
4.508.   It is appreciable that both reports reve al that despite various challenges following the 
global economic crisis, most of the EU economies are path of recovery.  
4.509.   As a staunch supporter of the rule based multilateral trading system, EU's role in nurturing 
and strengthening WTO is commendable. The E U has to play constructive role to bring DDA into a 
logical conclusion for the benefit of poor and marginalized countries in the world.  
4.510.   It is appreciable that the EU, the second -largest exporter and importer of goods, the 
largest exporter and importer of services, and the largest trading partner for 80 countries, 
important destination and source of investment remains significant to the global trade.  
4.511.   The EU and its member states collectively are the world's leading providers of Aid for Trade 
(AfT), covering  all six areas such as trade policy and regulation, trade development, trade -related 
infrastructure, building productive capacity, trade -related adjustment, and other trade -related 
needs.  
4.512.   We appreciate the EU's 'Generalised Scheme of Preferences' (GSP) whi ch allows developing 
countries zero duty rate under its EBA policy and GSP + arrangements, which supports for the 
sustainable development and good governance.  
4.513.   The EU attaches great importance to helping the LDCs better integrate into the world 
trading syst em. EU's preferential rules of origin allow LDCs to use up to 70% non -originating 
materials under value added criteria, which is supportive to LDCs to enhance their exports. 
However, we encourage EU to undertake further improvement in its rules of origin i n line with the 
Nairobi decision.  
4.514.   Similarly, we appreciate EU's notifications on preferential treatment to services exports of 
LDCs. We encourage EU to be a model for the implementation so that the LDCs could reap benefits 
from the waiver scheme.  
4.515.   The stri ngent SPS and TBT measures have posed obstacles to LDCs products, including 
Nepal, from entry into the EU markets. We request EU to relax SPS and TBT measures to LDCs' 
exports, address capacity constraints on SPS and TBT, including, technical standards, Mu tual 
Recognition Agreement/MRA, testing, calibration and conformity assessment procedure through 
tailor made interventions.  
4.516.   Nepal and EU formally tied diplomatic relations in 1975. Nepal -EU relations have always 
remained friendly, cordial and cooperative b ased on mutual understanding, support and 
cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, humanitarian and development area.  
4.517.   The EU is one of the principal trading partners of Nepal. It remains second largest export 
market having at around 13 % share. The exp orts from Nepal to the EU market covers mainly WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  handmade carpets, textile, gems and jewellery, wood and paper products and leather products 
whereas Nepal imports from EU Members largely engineering goods, telecommunication 
equipment, chemicals, minerals, me tals and steels aa well as agricultural products.  
4.518.   We appreciate continued support of the EU to Nepal in trade capacity building, 
strengthening trade related infrastructures and value chains development including Trade and 
Private Sector Development Progra mme (TSDP) running under the Ministry of Commerce, 
Government of Nepal to support coffee sector value chain development.  
4.519.   We value cordial relationship of EU and its Membership with Nepal. We expect continued 
support for trade and economic development. We w ish EU a great success for the Trade Policy 
Review.  
MAROC  
4.520.   La délégation du Royaume du Maroc se veut d'abord remercier l'ensemble des orateurs qui 
ont fait leurs présentations orales enrichissantes et souhaite féliciter l'UE pour cet excellent 
exercice qui reflète son engagement de qualité et son rôle important en tant que promoteur du 
développement. Au nom du Maroc, permettez -moi aussi de remercier l'ensemble du Secrétariat 
pour leur travail vital au bon fonctionnement de cet examen.  
4.521.   Par ailleurs, le comme ntaire de ma délégation porte sur la stratégie de l'UE concernant la 
garantie de non -discrimination en ce qui concerne l'achat en ligne, plus particulièrement le 
règlement projeté sur le blocage et autres restrictions géographiques qui portent préjudice au x 
achats en ligne et à la vente transfrontières (page 188, paragraphes 4.114 et 4.115).  
4.522.   Le Maroc souhaite savoir si l'UE envisage d'étendre l'application de ce règlement en dehors 
de l'Europe, en l'occurrence par le biais des accords de bon voisinage avec d'autres pays ou encore 
via des accords de partenariats économique.  
4.523.   En égard aux impacts importants de ce règlement aussi bien sur les consommateurs que 
sur les sociétés de vente en ligne, il est clair que ce règlement, dont l'objectif est d'éviter toute 
forme de discrimination quant aux prix ou aux conditions de vente ou de paiement en raison de 
leur nationalité, de leur lieu de résidence ou du lieu de leur établissement, serait porteur 
d'avantages pour le consommateur mais aussi de contraintes pour les so ciétés de vente en ligne. À 
cet égard, il est souhaitable de connaitre la vision de l'UE quant à l'éventualité d'étendre ce 
règlement à d'autres pays partenaires non européens et de connaitre le cas échéant les prérequis 
y afférentes.  
4.524.   Le Maroc, une fois de  plus, remercie le vif travail de l'UE et lui souhaite pleins succès à 
l'occasion de son 13ème examen périodique commercial.  
PARAGUAY  
4.525.   El informe nos muestra que durante el periodo objeto de examen la economía de la Unión 
Europa ha seguido recuperándose de manera gradual. Notamos una mejora de la tasa anual de 
crecimiento del PIB, y así mismo las exportaciones de bienes y servicios han aumentado.  
4.526.   La Unión Europea es el cuarto socio comercial de Paraguay, lo que representa 
aproximadamente el 12% de su comerci o. En el año 2015, el volumen de bienes intercambiados 
entre el Paraguay y la UE ascendió a 1.650 millones de euros, que resultó en una balanza 
comercial de 430 millones de euros a favor de Paraguay. Las exportaciones a Europa están 
compuestas principalmen te por productos agrícolas (90% del total de exportaciones de productos 
paraguayos). Las importaciones a Paraguay están dominadas por productos manufacturados y 
tecnológicos, en particular, maquinaria y equipo de transporte y productos químicos.  
4.527.   Paraguay s e beneficia del Sistema de Preferencias Generalizadas Plus (SPG+) que nos 
otorga preferencias comerciales para la exportación de varios productos a la Unión Europea, con 
arancel cero. El Paraguay es el único país del Mercosur admitido al esquema del SPG+.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.528.   Las relaciones económicas entre la Unión Europea y Paraguay han continuado 
intensificándose en diferentes ámbitos. Los flujos de capitales y de inversión directa europea se 
han incrementado. La Unión Europea es nuestro segundo inversor, con un stock de in versión de 
aproximadamente 1.000 millones de euros y aún existe un alto margen para reforzar nuestra 
relación bilateral.  
4.529.   Igualmente, vale mencionar que la Unión Europea coopera con Paraguay en varios 
ámbitos, entre ellos se destaca la implementación del Ac uerdo sobre Facilitación de Comercio.  
4.530.   El diálogo entre la Unión Europea y el Paraguay se desarrolla también en el marco de las 
relaciones UE -Mercosur.  
4.531.   En este sentido, las negociaciones para un Acuerdo de Asociación UE -Mercosur, se han 
intensificado, e inc lusive en esta semana se desarrolla una ronda de negociación. Estamos 
optimistas del avance que alcanzaremos con miras a ampliar substancialmente las relaciones 
económicas y comerciales entre las regiones para beneficio mutuo.  
4.532.   En la OMC, escuchamos con int erés que la Unión Europea considera que el sistema 
multilateral de comercio es el único que puede garantizar un crecimiento inclusivo, así como la 
ampliación de las oportunidades reales de desarrollo de los Miembros y que coinciden en la 
necesidad de forta lecer el pilar negociador de la OMC, con la construcción de reglas globales 
vinculantes, claras y no discriminatorias. Paraguay comparte esta visión, y esperamos alcanzar 
resultados tangibles en la próxima conferencia Ministerial de Buenos Aires y más allá . 
4.533.   Consideramos que la Unión Europea tiene potencial para convertirse en precursor de las 
reformas agrícolas, necesarias para un sistema multilateral libre de restricciones y distorsiones. 
Saludamos las reformas para disminuir la ayuda interna distorsionant e en su territorio. Sin 
embargo, la preservación de espacios de políticas ya sea a través de derechos que ya no son 
utilizados y que en algunos casos nunca fueron utilizados, es una actitud recurrente en el pilar de 
negociación. Alentamos a la Unión Europe a a que asuma un rol más activo en el sistema 
multilateral y promueva las reformas necesarias para contrarrestar los movimientos 
proteccionistas actuales.  
4.534.   Señalamos nuestra preocupación por la resistencia demostrada para impulsar reformas en 
el pilar de ac ceso a los mercados, donde persisten medidas que actúan como sostenimiento de 
precios internos, con efectos equivalente a las ayudas distorsionantes.  
4.535.   En el informe de la Secretaría se resalta que los aranceles agrícolas se distinguen del 
universo de aranc eles industriales en tres aspectos: primero, los aranceles consolidados exceden 
largamente a los industriales, inclusive los aranceles aplicados son más del triple que los aranceles 
industriales; segundo, el porcentaje de aranceles no ad valorem  es mucho m ás elevado, con 
aranceles mixtos y matrices muy complejas que restan transparencia a sus regímenes; y, por 
último, varias líneas arancelarias sujetas a contingentes arancelarios, con alrededor de 
124 contingentes arancelarios, de los cuales más de la mitad  presentan subutilización.  
4.536.   Adicionalmente, mantienen derechos de aplicar salvaguardias agrícolas para 539 líneas 
arancelarias, las cuales han sido utilizados en contados productos, principalmente la salvaguardia 
por precios, y nunca ha recurrido a la salva guardia por volumen.  
4.537.   Frente a este escenario, apelamos a que la Unión Europea promueva reformas verdaderas 
y palpables en el sistema multilateral, especialmente en el comercio agrícola, y que así permitan 
dar una mayor visibilidad, aumentar la eficiencia d e esta institución y su capacidad de aportar al 
desarrollo y el crecimiento económico de la economía global.  
4.538.   Para terminar, debo agregar  que muchos de los principios que guían las políticas 
comerciales de la Unión Europea (justicia social, integración reg ional, democracia y derechos 
humanos) son principios que también guían nuestro trabajo. Esperamos seguir trabajando juntos.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  PANAMÁ  
4.539.   El informe preparado por la Secretaría destaca que la Unión Europea es el principal 
interlocutor comercial para más de 80 Mi embros de esta Organización. El intercambio comercial 
entre Panamá y la Unión Europea en el año 2016 representó como bloque el 11% del intercambio 
comercial total de Panamá, lo cual la coloca en el segundo lugar en importancia. Para el mismo 
año, las expor taciones de Panamá hacia la Unión Europea representaron el 29,5% siendo los 
principales productos bananas, sandías, camarones, harina, polvo y aceites de pescado, peces 
espada entre otros. Las importaciones de Panamá desde la UE aumentaron en un 16.4%, sie ndo 
los principales productos medicamentos, reactivos compuestos, y partes para maquinas, entre 
otros.  
4.540.   Las relaciones comerciales entre Panamá y la Unión Europea fueron reforzadas por el 
Acuerdo de Asociación UE -América Central, firmado el 29 de junio de 2 012. Este acuerdo incentiva 
y consolida el comercio regional centroamericano, mediante reglamentación común para el 
intercambio de bienes y servicios, inversiones, propiedad intelectual, facilitación del comercio, 
entre otros.  
4.541.   El acuerdo ha promovido mayo res flujos de inversión hacia Panamá. La inversión europea 
sumó 39,629 millones de dólares EE.UU. en el 2016, y el número de empresas multinacionales 
europeas establecidas en Panamá ascendió a 50. Esto coloca a Panamá como el primer receptor 
centroamerican o de las inversiones de la Unión Europea.  
4.542.   El acuerdo ha ofrecido también oportunidades para potenciar la oferta logística panameña, 
siendo elemento importante en la evolución de Panamá como plataforma regional importante, 
exportadora de servicios, particu larmente en los sectores de servicios financieros, de 
telecomunicaciones, de distribución y turismo.  
4.543.   El informe de la Secretaría destaca también un programa de reformas que va de la mano 
con prioridades identificadas por la Unión Europea, como la inversió n, la responsabilidad fiscal y 
reformas estructurales. Se trata de políticas adoptadas con el objetivo de estimular mayor 
productividad mediante la expansión de las cadenas de valor mundiales en área estratégicas como 
el comercio de servicios y el comercio  electrónico, y con particular énfasis en la participación de las 
MPYMEs. Muchos de estos esfuerzos enfatizan la reducción de obstáculos no arancelarios, avances 
tecnológicos para facilitar el suministro transfronterizo de servicios, así como políticas par a 
avanzar la modernización del marco jurídico de protección y observancia de la propiedad 
intelectual e industrial.   
4.544.   Panamá ve como positivas algunas iniciativas emprendidas por la Unión Europea con el 
objetivo de fortalecer, potenciar y mejorar la transp arencia en el sector de servicios financieros, 
aplicando normas que contribuyen en la lucha contra el blanqueo de capitales y el terrorismo.  
Panamá toma nota también de medidas adoptadas en el sector marítimo para mejorar la 
transparencia financiera portu aria.   
4.545.   Vemos como muy positiva la estrategia Europa 2020, para promover el crecimiento 
inteligente, sostenible e integrado, a través de la reducción de la pobreza y exclusión social, el 
aumento del empleo y las inversiones, enfrentar el cambio climático y  fomentar la sostenibilidad 
energética. Esto guarda promesas de poder mejorar el entorno empresarial, promover mayor 
competencia y la innovación.  
4.546.   En el sector pesquero celebramos los objetivos de garantizar la sostenibilidad ecológica, 
económica y social de las actividades pesqueras y acuícolas, así como la aplicación de un enfoque 
ecosistémico a la ordenación de la pesca. Sin embargo, es de nuestro interés conocer con mayor 
precisión el funcionamiento y reglamentación de apoyos financieros que la UE propo rciona al 
sector pesquero bajo la política pesquera común (PPC), y cómo el PPC avanza los compromisos de 
los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible de Naciones Unidas.  
4.547.   Así mismo, es de mérito mencionar de manera positiva las nuevas medidas y reglamentos 
imple mentados para una mayor protección de la salud pública, humana y animal. Sin embargo, 
preocupa también el potencial que estas nuevas políticas representen, con sus condiciones 
especiales, nuevas restricciones u obstáculos que suspenden o impide de manera i mportante las WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  importaciones. En particular, preocupan reglamentos en discusión para el establecimiento máximo 
de residuos, y la presencia de perturbadores endocrinos, las cuales se distancian de normas 
internacionales reconocidas.  
4.548.   Panamá reconoce los notab les esfuerzos de la Unión Europea en diversas áreas que se 
desprenden de los informes. Como a otras delegaciones, nos interesa conocer un poco más sobre 
la visión de la UE para enfrentar los retos del Brexit en particular cómo afectará compromisos en la 
OMC, y la visión europea frente al impase generalizado que experimentamos en los preparativos 
que permitan un MC11 exitoso con resultados de sustancia. Panamá felicita a la Unión Europea por 
su compromiso y participación en el sistema de comercio multilatera l y su importante rol en las 
negociaciones comerciales.   
4.549.   Con estas palabras, deseamos a la Unión Europea un exitoso examen de políticas 
comerciales.  
URUGUAY  
4.550.   Uruguay le da la bienvenida a la delegación de la Unión Europea en esta importante 
instancia para el sistema multilateral del comercio que contribuye a la transparencia de las 
políticas comerciales de los Miembros.  
4.551.   La Unión Europea siendo una de las economías y entidades comerciales mayores del 
mundo, desempeña un papel fundamental en el sistema multil ateral de comercio.  
4.552.   Europea ha sido tradicionalmente un mercado de especial importancia para nuestro país. 
Los países de la UE son el destino de alrededor del 12% del total de las exportaciones de Uruguay.  
4.553.   Uruguay exporta a la UE sobe todo, productos agrop ecuarios de alta calidad como carne 
bovina refrigerada y congelada, pasta de madera, pieles y cueros, madera frutas frescas y lana, 
entre otros. En el período considerado, las exportaciones de celulosa, aumentaron en forma 
considerable y este producto ya s e encuentra entre los primeros diez puestos de las ventas.  
4.554.   Por otro lado, Uruguay importas desde la UE productos manufacturados, maquinaria de 
todo tipo, equipos eléctricos, fertilizantes, productos farmacéuticos, productos químicos, entre 
otros. Recordamo s que la UE es muy importante, para el suministro de bienes de capital e insumos 
de la industria manufacturera.  
4.555.   En función de lo expresado y la importancia que tiene la UE para Uruguay, el desarrollo de 
las relaciones comerciales con la UE constituye una p rioridad en la agenda externa del Uruguay y 
también del MERCOSUR.  
4.556.   Uruguay va a realizar todos los esfuerzos para cumplir, el calendario de negociaciones 
MERCOSUR -UE y lograr un acuerdo lo antes posible. Uruguay está convencido de que el acuerdo 
entre la UE  y el MERCOSUR será un importante impulso para el comercio internacional.  
4.557.   Cabe destacar que durante el período considerado, Uruguay negoció con la UE un acuerdo 
de compensaciones como resultado de la adhesión de Croacia a la Unión Europea, que fue 
rubricad o durante la Conferencia Ministerial de Nairobi en diciembre del 2015 y entró en pleno 
vigor al comienzo de este año.  
4.558.   Con respecto a obstáculos técnicos y normas sanitarias y fitosanitarias Uruguay comparte 
la opinión de la legitimidad y la importancia de tomar decisiones para proteger la salud de las 
personas y los animales. Sin embargo, al mismo tiempo entendemos que estas medidas deben 
estar basadas en la ciencia y en base a análisis de riesgo.  
4.559.   En lo relativo a inversiones se destaca la presencia de empr esas europeas en Uruguay en 
los sectores de manufacturas y de servicios, ocupando hoy un lugar de gran importancia en 
sectores estratégicos como las telecomunicaciones, los servicios logísticos, portuarios, la energía, 
construcción, infraestructura, servic ios financieros, sector inmobiliario, y agro negocios . Uruguay 
se viene posicionado como centro logístico y hub en América del Sur y puerta de entrada al WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  MERCOSUR siendo que numerosas empresas europeas de distintos ámbitos en servicios vienen 
contribuyend o a esta apuesta.  
4.560.   Uruguay reconoce los esfuerzos de la UE en materia de reforma de la agricultura 
internacional y su capacidad de liderazgo para continuar los esfuerzos en esta área. Uruguay tiene 
la expectativa de que la UE siga teniendo un rol propositiv o en la negociación en agricultura de 
cara a Buenos Aires como lo tuvo en Nairobi.  
4.561.   Para concluir esta intervención, Uruguay le desea a la Unión Europea el mayor de los 
éxitos en este examen de sus políticas comerciales.  
ZIMBABWE  
4.562.   The EU remains one of the l argest trading blocs and their economy continues grows in 
spite of the challenges related to Brexit, oil price movements, immigration issues, terrorism and 
political uncertainty resulting from elections in some its member States. However, the economic 
recovery since the financial crisis has been uneven within the region. Unemployment levels 
declined gradually during the review period and the impact of Brexit on the RU economy remains 
uncertain.  
4.563.   The EU is playing a central role in global trade, being the sec ond largest importer and 
exporter of goods and the largest exporter and importer of services. It is also the largest trading 
partner for 80 countries and an important source and destination for investment.  
4.564.   There is free movement of capital, goods and labou r within the region and the EU has an 
effective and efficient customs union and commercial policy.  
4.565.   At the multilateral level, the EU delegation has contributed immensely to the success of 
the multilateral trading system and continues to play a critical rol e in shaping the work of the 
WTO.  
4.566.   At bilateral level, the EU is Zimbabwe's second largest trading partner. In 2015, Zimbabwe 
exported goods worth €402 million to the EU, against imports from the EU amounting to 
€220 million, thus giving a positive trade ba lance in favour of Zimbabwe of € 82 million. In 2016, 
total trade between declined and Zimbabwe exported goods worth €333 million whilst imports 
amounted to €174 million, giving Zimbabwe a trade surplus of €159 million.  
4.567.   Zimbabwe exports mostly mineral and agricultural products with tobacco, sugar and 
horticulture products as some of the major exports to the EU. Zimbabwe imports mostly 
machinery, vehicles, chemicals and other related capital goods and the EU is also an important 
source market for tourists an d Foreign Direct Investment for the country.  
4.568.   On 16 February 2015, the Government of Zimbabwe and the European Union signed the 
National Indicative Programme (NIP) for the 11th European Development Fund which has an 
indicative allocation of €234 million for the period 2015 -2020, for implementation of projects and 
programmes on agriculture, state enterprises reforms, health and other sectors.  
4.569.   Zimbabwe, together with three other countries, namely Mauritius, Madagascar and 
Seychelles signed an I nterim EPA in 2009 in order to avoid trade disruption, pending the 
finalisation of negotiations for a full and comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). 
The interim EPA consequently entered into force in May 2012 after its ratification.  
4.570.   Zimbabwe is set to benefit from a regional envelope of €10 million which if for provision of 
technical assistance and support for the implementation of the EPA. This will in turn promote the 
country's integration into the regional and international Trading System. Zimbabwe appreciates 
the technical and financial support that we continue to receive from the EU.  
4.571.   Zimbabwe still faces Non -Tariff Barriers related challenges when accessing the EU market 
and these include SPS issues and technical standards. The country is however grateful that, 
through the International Trade Centre, the EU availed €950 000 for purposes of addressing these 
challenges. The objective of this funding is specifically to enhance knowledge and understanding of WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  SPS related issues and technical standards, as well as building infrastructural capacity such as 
rehabilitation an d setting up laboratories.  
4.572.   We hope that economic cooperation between Zimbabwe and the EU will continue to be 
strengthened as preparations for implementation of the full and comprehensive EPA progresses. 
Furthermore, there are positive signals that Zimbabwe  can in future have increased FDI from the 
EU region.  
4.573.   Lastly, we would appreciate if the EU could share information and update us on 
developments and the impact of BREXIT on global trade and on the EU trading partners especially 
those under the EPY configu rations, in the relevant WTO Committees.  
4.574.   I wish the EU a successful Trade Policy Review.  
PAKISTAN  
4.575.   The European Union has been the most effective, influential and innovative project of our 
times. The EU has delivered more than half a century of peace, stabi lity and prosperity, and helped 
raise living standards of its inhabitants.  
4.576.   Pakistan and the EU enjoy very cordial and mutually be neficial relations. The trade 
between the two is around €12 billion with Pakistan exporting about €6.3 billion of goods and our 
imports from EU are €5.3 billion.  
4.577.   Pakistan is a beneficiary of the EU's comprehensive initiatives of preferential trade to 
provide incentives to the beneficiaries with a view to promoting positive linkages between trade 
and sustainable development. Pakistan fully appreciates these initiatives and wishes to extend its 
deepest gratitude to the EU's unwavering support toward sustaina ble development. Since 
January  2014, Pakistan is a beneficiary of EU GSP+ scheme which has contributed to an increase 
in Pakistan's exports to the EU. Major beneficiary of this scheme has been women working in 
textile industry. Pakistan imports from the EU  have also registered an increase of more than 20%, 
going from US$4.8 billion in 2015 to US$5.8 billion in 2016. Pakistan has initiated major 
investments in the energy sector including renewables. This increase in imports is primarily for the 
imports of po wer turbines including wind turbines and allied equipment being imported from EU.  
4.578.   Since the last Trade Policy Review of the EU in 2015, the EU economy continued to grow. 
Exports and imports increased between 2013 and 2015, reaching €1,789 billion and €1,729 
respectively, but were expected to have declined slightly in 2016. The EU remain s critically 
important to world trade. The EU is also important as a destination for, and source of, investment, 
although foreign direct investment, both inward and outward, fluctuated over the 2013 -2015 
period.  
4.579.   Pakistan appreciates that in October 2015, t he European Commission issued a new trade 
and investment policy for the EU. The new policy is intended to support the growth of global value 
chains, services trade, and e -commerce. The main objectives include reducing non -tariff barriers 
and increasing tra de in services, while benefiting from improved technology to facilitate 
cross-border provision of services and recognizing the importance of labour mobility and mutual 
recognition of professional qualifications.  
4.580.   Pakistan has taken note that Intellectual p roperty rights continue to be very important for 
the EU economy with over 40% of GDP generated by IPR -intensive industries (2011 -2013). Under 
the Commission's 2011 strategy for IP, a number of legislative measures were adopted, including 
a trademark reform  package and a directive on trade secrets.  
4.581.   Pakistan finds it commendable, that in financial services, the reforms initiated in 2007 
were largely completed by 2015, but some new measures were introduced during the period under 
review. The legislation is gr ouped into three pillars: rules for the global financial system; rules to 
establish a safe, responsible, and growth -enhancing financial sector in Europe; and rules to 
complete the banking union to strengthen the euro.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.582.   To a very large extent, the EU functi ons as a single economy with common import duties, 
import and export procedures, and rules on investment. Furthermore, the harmonization across 
the EU of many measures, including customs procedures, technical requirements, and SPS 
measures can facilitate a ccess to the EU market and reduce the cost of developing and complying 
with regulations. However, Pakistan notes that in some cases, complying with EU requirements 
may add to the cost of doing business. Furthermore, agriculture remains highly protected. Th e EU 
and its member States are important Members of the WTO and the development of their policies, 
politics, and economy affects many other countries. Therefore, the trade and investment policies 
of the EU are important to other countries and the multilate ral trading system, and how the EU 
addresses current challenges are of interest to the WTO as a whole.  
4.583.   We greatly appreciate the active engagement of the EU at the WTO here in Geneva led by 
His Excellency, Marc Vanheukelen, who is a thought leader in true sense of the word.  
4.584.   Pakistan would like to wish the European Union a very fruitful and successful TPR.  
KENYA  
4.585.   Kenya enjoys a strong and longstanding economic and trade relations with the European 
Union and closer ties with its individual member States underp inned by the framework of the 
successive Lomé Conventions and the Cotonou Agreement. In 2016, Kenya signed and ratified the 
EAC-EU Economic Partnership Agreement that is a WTO -compatible trade agreement. The new 
trading regime is expected to come into forc e once the other EAC partner states also sign and 
ratify. The full implementation of EPAS is expected to ensure a transparent and more predictable 
framework for trade and investment between EAC and EU region.  
4.586.   We note that the EU is a major player in intern ational trade. It is the second -largest 
exporter and importer of goods, the largest exporter and importer of services. According to 
secretariat report The EU currently has a GDP of €14,711. It exports and imports goods valued at 
€3,518 billion and services valued at €1,517 billion. The EU is also important as a destination for, 
and source of investment.  
4.587.   Kenya welcomes improvements to the EU's internal market since the last Trade Pol icy 
Review in 2015. The EU has adopted several policies such as trade and investment policy, services 
trade, and e -commerce, Union Customs Code, new/amended regulations on trade remedies and 
safeguards. We also note that EU has exclusive competence over th e customs union, while the 
customs administration authorities of the member states are responsible for applying the common 
customs legislation.  We therefore encourage the EU to continue to open its market to support 
global economic growth.  
4.588.   We note the EU' s Legislative reform of the financial services sector and commend its 
efforts for introducing some new financial measures during the period under review. We are 
pleased to note that some of the reforms include rules for the global financial system; rules t o 
establish a safe, responsible, and growth -enhancing financial sector in Europe; and rules to 
complete the banking union to strengthen the euro. In addition, in 2015 a new regulation on 
securities financing transactions was also adopted to improve transpa rency, and identify and 
quantify risks.  
4.589.   We welcome the European Union's commitment to the multilateral trading system and in 
particular their active role and participation in the WTO work including negotiations. EU has also 
continued to negotiate regional trade agreements, which cover trade in goods and services, 
intellectual property, and other areas not covered by WTO. These agreements are expected to 
create opportunities for trade, growth and employment. We therefore trust that the EU will 
continue to pl ay a leadership role at the global level and Kenya looks forward to working closely 
with the EU to achieve concrete outcomes ahead of the 11th Ministerial Conference in Argentina.  
4.590.   We note that intellectual property rights continues to play a critical role in the EU's 
economy in terms of its contribution to employment and GDP. In this regard, we commend EU for 
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  4.591.   We commend the EU's contribution to the WTO trade -related technical ass istance and 
capacity building programmes for developing countries. We also appreciated the EU development 
assistance programme that has immensely benefited many developing countries including Kenya.   
4.592.   On the bilateral front, I'm pleased to note that EU rem ains Kenya's second largest market 
after COMESA, although we note with concern that trade balance is heavily tilted in favour of the 
EU. Exports to EU have risen steadily over the past years and were estimated at €1.28 billion in 
2016. Kenya's exports to the EU are mainly agricultural commodities such as cut flowers, fruits 
and vegetables, which account for over 90% of total export value, while the EU is Kenya's major 
single source of imports, mainly industrial pro ducts such as machinery and transport equipment, 
chemicals and related products among others.   
4.593.   Finally, we wish the EU a successful Trade Policy review.  
JORDAN  
4.594.   I would like to start by extending a warm welcome to the entire EU delegation, and to start 
to congratulate them for the efforts exerted in the preparation for the trade policy review and 
preparing report.  
4.595.   We would like to thanks the Head of the delegation for his opening statement and detailed 
introductory remarks which show the positive developmen ts in the European economy and the 
continued reforms, in addition to the EU's commitment to the multilateral trading system. I would 
like also to thank the Secretariat for their excellent report and the discussant for his insightful 
remarks.  
4.596.   Jordan and the  EU signed an Association Agreement which entered into force in 2002, and 
enjoy excellent bilateral economic and trade relations and smooth flow of investment and trade.  
4.597.   We wish the EU and its member States a fruitful and a successful Trade Policy Review.  
KYRGYZ  REPUBLIC  
4.598.   The bilateral relations between the EU and the Kyrgyz Republic started from concluding the 
Agreement on Partnership and Cooperation between the European Union and the Kyrgyz Republic 
in 1995 that came into force on 1 July 1999. This Agreeme nt laid the background of main areas of 
cooperation in economic, trade, investment, political, commercial, financial, legal and cultural 
spheres.  
4.599.   It should be noted that the parties have reached a new level of collaboration that was 
demonstrated in the re cent visit of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic in February this year by 
succeeding signing of number of agreements for development projects that give hopes for further 
constructive and mutually beneficial cooperation between the parties.  
4.600.   The level of c ooperation between the Parties is also reflected in the recent adoption by the 
Kyrgyz Government of Provision on the European Union Coordination Council.  
4.601.   The intention of the EU to move towards barrier -free trade system along with granting the 
status of th e GSP+ to the Kyrgyz Republic opens unique opportunities for domestic producers of 
the Kyrgyz Republic to export products from the Kyrgyz Republic to EU market in compliance with 
sanitary, phytosanitary and technical requirements of the EU.  
4.602.   We firmly belie ve that the granting of GSP+ status by the EU to Kyrgyzstan has positive 
effects on our country's perspectives to expand export destinations of the Kyrgyz goods to other 
country -members of the EU.  
4.603.   This opportunity is not only for Kyrgyz exporters but also from the market point of view 
seems very attractive for investing into Kyrgyzstan's market for further launching of export 
oriented enterprises.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  4.604.   Kyrgyzstan has obtained the opportunity to export more than 6000 goods into the EU 
market on a duty -free basis.  This list mainly consists of agricultural goods such as dried fruits and 
vegetables; cans; juices; nuts, beans, tobacco, felt production; textile; leather goods and others.  
4.605.   In terms of services, it is worth to note that tourism seems very attractive to st rengthen 
the potential of trade relations in services sector.  
4.606.   The Kyrgyz Republic is optimistic on further fruitful economic cooperation and maintaining 
stable trade relations with European Union.  
4.607.   The Kyrgyz Republic wishes a successful Trade Policy Revie w to the European Union.  
4.608.   For reference:  
 EU has a share of 5.8% in trade turnover of the Kyrgyz Republic, including export – 4.7%, 
import – 6.3%.  
 In 2016, the volume of foreign trade with EU members compared to 2015 was decreased by 
14% and comprised US$318 .8 million. This has occurred due to the decrease in imports by 
23% (US$51.6 million), and export of goods increased by 44.3% (US$22.2 million).  
 The largest trading partners of the Kyrgyz Republic among the EU members are: Germany 
(1.3% of KR trade turnov er) Great Britain (0.8%), Belgium (0.4%), Poland (0.3%), France 
(0.4%), Netherlands (0.2%), others.  
 Kyrgyzstan's export to EU mainly comprises of agriculture (raw cotton, tobacco, vegetables, 
beans, mushrooms, and fruits, gold, transport vehicles and parts  thereof, engines, facilities, 
equipment, ferrous and non -ferrous scraps).  
 EU members import to Kyrgyzstan: machinery (industrial equipment, mechanical devices, 
electrical machinery, and components), transport vehicles and their parts, optical appliances 
and tools, pharmaceuticals, various food products, mineral oils (lubricants), paper, carton 
and their products.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF THE EUR OPEAN UNION AND ADDI TIONAL 
COMMENTS  
5.1.  I would like to use my intervention and the time available to engage  systematically with all 
the comments and issues raised in the oral statements made on Wednesday. We will reply to all 
outstanding questions within the deadline foreseen for this exercise.  
5.2.  I welcome the positive statements made on Wednesday and this morni ng, the vast majority 
of which emphasised the EU's openness and support for the multilateral trading system as well as 
its efforts to lead by example in the face of a growing backlash against globalisation and the risk of 
protectionism. I also welcome the multiple statements that have been made highlighting that the 
vast majority of trade with the EU is conducted without any problems and that potential concerns 
are very much an exception rather than the rule. They are in fact limited to certain well defined  
areas.  
5.3.  Many Members also recognise our efforts to push forward preparations for a successful MC11. 
Indeed, a successful Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires is a top priority for the EU and we have 
made every effort to make this objective a reality.  
5.4.  I'm happy to use this opportunity to confirm the very positive news coming out of Brussels 
that the EU and Japan have indeed reached a political agreement on a free trade agreement which 
has every potential to redefine and significantly expand our trade rela tions. The deal shows that 
there is scope for ambitious, comprehensive and mutually beneficial bilateral trade agreements.  
5.5.  Several Members commended the EU for the value -based trade agenda set out in our Trade 
for All strategy and I am very happy with this  positive reaction. Our efforts in this area highlight an 
important point: that trade is of mutual benefit and that we all stand to gain from trade which is 
fair and sustainable. This extends to the issue of gender equality and women's empowerment, to 
which we attach great importance and on which we would like to see more activities in the WTO. 
The next opportunity in this regard will be next week's Aid for Trade Global Review.  
5.6.  I will now answer the questions you raised on Wednesday and this morning as foll ows: I will 
start with a few systemic issues, before moving to the specific questions again under 10 blocks.  
Systemic issues  
5.7.  The implementation of the Agreements reached in Bali and in Nairobi is now a key concern 
and I'm happy to confirm that the EU is in  the forefront of efforts. Specifically on export 
competition, it is well known that the EU has not provided export subsidies since 2013. We are 
now finalizing the preparation of a revised EU schedule that will bring our entitlements to zero. 
This will be put forward to the Membership in the coming weeks. We call on other concerned 
Members to do the same.  
5.8.  Over the last year, the EU has made clear its expectations for a substantive and meaningful 
outcome at MC11. We have supported this with concrete submiss ions on most of the areas under 
discussion. We commend all of you who have done the same. Now, true negotiations need to begin 
quickly. I would call on all Members to avoid tactical games and focus on substance, which is the 
only way we can work toward con crete outcomes.  
5.9.  For the EU, the outcome of MC11 as well as post -MC11 work is closely linked to our long -
term objective of levelling the playing field by creating new rules in areas which are in dire need of 
new disciplines. This particularly includes the broad area of subsidies. In this regard, some 
Members referred in their statements to export credits and the important work being done by the 
International Working Group (IWG), which brings together many participants including the EU, 
China, Brazil, India,  South Africa and the US to pursue the shared goal of developing new export 
credit disciplines. What we are talking about here is clarifying the rules regarding prohibited export 
subsidies and ensuring that the major providers of export credits are in fact  playing by the rules.  
5.10.  One Member (China) referred to the EU's restrictions on exports of high -tech goods, 
particularly dual -use goods which can be used for both civilian and military applications. The EU 
implements its policies in this area within the cle arly set limits of UN Security Council resolutions, WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  WTO agreements and the cooperation that we have with numerous other Members in international 
export control regimes. Every export transaction is assessed on its own merits taking into account 
the risk tha t a particular item will be diverted to military end -use. I would underline that this well 
established policy does not in fact create any meaningful problems for legitimate transactions. 
What actually creates problems are efforts to divert civilian technol ogies toward military 
programmes and forced technology transfers.  
5.11.   The discussant and a few Members referred to some delays with regard to EU notifications. 
Allow me to reiterate that the EU treats transparency and notifications extremely seriously. 
Severa l EU notifications were actually made in recent weeks. These covered an STE corrigendum, 
our notification on Rules of Origin for LDCs as well as our GPA statistics. Regarding our domestic 
support notifications, it is well known that financing cycles vary a cross WTO Members and that 
they do not necessarily end on 31 December of each year. The last DS:1 notification covered the 
calendar year 2013 -2014 and we are close to finalising the one for the 2014 -2015 calendar year. 
Unfortunately the same cannot be said  for every WTO Member, some of which have not submitted 
the necessary notifications since the creation of this organisation in 1995. I would refer Members 
here to the useful compilation prepared by the Secretariat (document G/L/223/Rev.24).  
5.12.  And finally, a few Members referred to the EU's tariff profile mentioning explicitly our tariffs 
for agricultural and fish products. Some of you have higher agricultural tariffs while others have 
very high industrial ones. While tariff liberalisation efforts have been un dertaken recently through 
bilateral and plurilateral tracks, such efforts have not been undertaken recently in the WTO. Future 
adjustments of Members' tariff structures need to take place within the context of comprehensive 
market access negotiations, on w hich we do not sense much appetite in this organisation.  
5.13.  I would now proceed to addressing some of the more specific issues raised, organised again 
into 10 blocks.  
Block 1 - Agriculture  
5.14.  Firstly, on agriculture issues, I noted several interventions by Memb ers, relating to the three 
pillars and welcoming the continuous process of CAP reform: domestic support, market access and 
export competition.  
5.15.  Let me start by domestic support.  
5.16.  The decline in the use of public intervention is a result of the change in pol icy orientation of 
the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) from product (price) support (through market intervention 
measures) towards producer support through direct income support. Reforms of the CAP since the 
early 1990s have changed the public interventio n policy, decreasing both the administered prices 
and buying in quantities and completely eliminating the system for some products.  
5.17.  This trend is reflected in the changes in the structure of the CAP budget where the share of 
market intervention measures ( including export refunds) declined from 100% of total CAP 
expenditure in 1980 to below 5% in 2011. Is also reflected in the EU's notified domestic support 
where the current total Aggregated Measure Support (AMS) has decreased dramatically. Today, 
market in tervention measures can only be used as a safety net mechanism. It was in this sense 
that the mechanism was triggered in 2014 and 2015, but only, for certain fruit and vegetables, in 
response to the Russian import ban and in reaction to the dramatic global  price fall for dairy 
products.  
5.18.  Most CAP support is notified as Green Box compliant decoupled income support, which is 
granted to farmers in the form of decoupled direct payments with no obligation to produce. The 
latest "DS:1 notification" EU reported ver y limited suppor t in the Amber Box (less than €6 billion, 
95% of which for Market Price Support to wheat, butter and SMP).  
5.19.  In addition, I would like to refer to the end of the last two remaining production quotas in 
the CAP for milk and sugar, both of which are supressed.  As a consequence, EU prices will align 
even further with world prices.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  5.20.  In the light of these developments and the EU's efforts over the years, I would emphasize 
by expectation and hope that other WTO Members would undertake the same level of reforms in 
agriculture.  
5.21.  Some delegations referred to the fact that EU subsidies under the Amber Box have not 
decreased based on OECD data. I would like to underline that the OECD methodology is quite 
different from the logic of the WTO Agreement on Agriculture. I stro ngly believe that policies 
conducted under the WTO Agreement on Agriculture and reviewed in the TPR, need to be assessed 
under WTO criteria. And here the trend is crystal clear – an enormous shift has occurred in recent 
years from EU Amber Box support to n on-trade distorting Green Box support. Some Members may 
call this box shifting. I rather call this "good policy" which is in the EU's interest and in your 
interest. To summarise: you should ask yourselves whether you would prefer Members who still 
maintain  high levels of trade distorting Amber Box support to maintain such measures or would 
you prefer that they move toward non -trade distorting Green Box support. The answer I think is 
clear.  
5.22.  In relation to market access in agriculture, I think it is important  to emphasise that the EU 
is the world's largest importer of agriculture produc ts, with imports of more than €112 billion in 
2016. In addition, the EU has concluded and continues to negotiate ambitious FTA agreements to 
reduce agricultural tariffs in bilateral trade.  
5.23.  The EU import regime for agricultural products is fully transparent  and predictable and is 
contained in the EU's schedule, as accepted and bound as part of the Uruguay Round Agreement. 
The EU has only a limited number of tariff peaks, which were accepted and bound as part of the 
Uruguay Round Agreement.  
5.24.  With regard to TR Q management and concerns on low fill rates, I would like to clarify that 
those may result from market conditions such as competitive domestic production. Several of 
these TRQs presenting an under fill rate below 65%, are already managed on a first -come -first-
served basis in line with the decision taken in Bali. TRQs including fill rates as well as TRQs 
managed by licenses are notified each year to the WTO.  
5.25.  New Zealand mentioned in its statement its concerns regarding tariffs on dairy products. I 
commend N ew Zealand for taking the time to convert some of our 'specific' tariffs into ad valorem 
equivalents. I would highlight in response that no changes have actually occurred to our specific 
tariffs for the goods concerned. These are in fact bound in our sched ule. Any changes that New 
Zealand has recorded must therefore be the result of external factors such as the value of the 
imported product or the relevant exchange rate.  
5.26.  In relation to export competition, EU legislation is already in full compliance with t he Nairobi 
outcome. As mentioned, no agricultural export subsidies have been granted since July 2013.  
Block 2 - Fisheries  
5.27.  Secondly, on our Common Fisheries Policy, I am pleased to note that there was a general 
recognition of the EU's 2013 reform as a step  in the right direction, towards greater sustainability 
and science based management of the resources.  
5.28.  The EU is dedicated to addressing the issue of excess of capacity that is also set out in SDG 
14.6. I am very pleased to mention today that the EU has j ust submitted a revision of its original 
fisheries subsidies proposal to the Rules Negotiating Group in view of MC11.  
5.29.  I have noted Iceland's comment regarding our fish tariffs, the average of which is 12%. As 
mentioned in the general part of my statement,  further tariff concessions should be the subject of 
comprehensive tariff negotiations.  
Block 3 - Trade defence  
5.30.  Third, several important questions were raised regarding our trade defence measures.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  5.31.  In a world where a level playing field is a distant dream,  where dumping is more common 
that we would like, and where massive amount of subsidies are threatening the competitiveness of 
our businesses and leading to overcapacity, trade defence will remain an integral and necessary 
part of our trade policy. Such to ols will remain in place and will continue to be used until others 
reign in their policies.  
5.32.  China referred in its statement to the need to live up to commitments. I fully agree and the 
EU has taken the necessary steps to fulfil its obligations. The issue i s now subject to dispute 
settlement, so it would be inappropriate to comment further apart from saying that the EU will 
vigorously and staunchly defend its legislation. I would refer here again to compliance with 
notification obligations regarding subsidie s being provided by Members. In the case of China, the 
last notification was made in 2015 and covered the period 2009 -2014, and even this in a 
non-exhaustive manner. This too is the subject of dispute settlement.  
5.33.  Several questions were also raised regardi ng the Commission's capacity to self -initiate 
anti-dumping investigations. The EU's legal framework indeed provides for the possibility for the 
Commission to initiate anti -dumping investigations itself without having received a complaint. If 
the level of e vidence available to the Commission is comparable to the level of evidence which 
would be required from a complainant to justify the initiation of an anti -dumping investigation. In 
practice, it is exceptional that the Commission initiates anti -dumping case s by itself.  
5.34.  A few Members also asked questions regarding amendments to our anti -dumping and 
anti-subsidy regulations. Here we have on the table our 2013 TDI modernization proposal and the 
more recent 2016 proposal on the methodology to calculate dumping. The legislative process is 
ongoing. I hope that agreement on the revisions will be reached by the end of the year.  
Block 4 – Investment  
5.35.  Fourth, a few Members referred to the EU's investment policy and to the need to ensure 
clarity and legal certainty with regard to the 1400 existing BITs. This is a very valid point which 
the EU takes very seriously.  
5.36.  Since foreign direct investment policy is an integral part of the EU's common commercial 
policy, new investment negotiations with third countries should genera lly only be carried out at EU 
level. In order to ensure stability, the existing BITs between EU Member States and third countries 
remain in force and will continue to be preserved until they are replaced by EU agreements.  
5.37.  Finally, some Members rightly poi nted to the need for clarity and predictability regarding the 
question of exclusive EU competence in view of the recent ECJ opinion on the Singapore case. The 
Court's ruling indeed provided clarity to on the issue of EU competences on trade and investment.  
The details were set out in my statement on Wednesday and in several responses to your written 
questions. Today, I would emphasise that while I understand that this is an important issue, it is in 
fact an issue of internal EU governance. It will not affec t the fact that you are and will continue to 
negotiate with the European Union.  
Block 5 - SPS and TBT  
5.38.  Five, with regard to SPS and TBT issues, I want to thank the discussant, Canada, and other 
Members who acknowledged the improvements we have made to our legislation – particularly on 
animal and plant health.  
5.39.  Some of you commented on our use of risk assessment. EU SPS measures are 
science -based and they are adopted in accordance with the internationally recognised principles of 
risk analysis. The EU's risk  assessor, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is an independent 
source of scientific advice on risks associated with the food chain. The risk managers (European 
Commission, the European Parliament and the EU Member States) then adopt the appropriate  risk 
management decisions on the basis of EFSA's risk assessments.  
5.40.  Concerning the maximum residue limits (MRL) for pesticides, the EU sets MRLs as low as 
reasonably achievable for the protection of consumers. This means that if a substance is not 
approved  in the EU, the MRLs for the substance are set at the level of detection. The EU has WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  circulated an information note to all WTO Members explaining in detail the process of applying 
import tolerances.  
5.41.  Concerning endocrine disruptors, the regulatory process f or the adoption of the draft criteria 
to identify endocrine disruptors is ongoing. Discussions on the proposal providing for a derogation 
possibility from the criteria (i.e. the modification from "negligible exposure" to "negligible risk") will 
be resumed once the criteria are adopted.  
5.42.  On GMOs, I am happy to say that the system has actually accelerated over the last year and 
that the Commission is looking at the existing procedures to improve the efficiency and 
transparency of the process. In 2016, there we re 11 new authorizations. 10 of these were for 
imported food and feed uses, and 1 for cut flowers. I would also like to highlight that on 
4 July 2017, the Commission adopted five more authorizations for GMOs for food and feed use: 
2 GM cottons, 2 new GM ma izes and the renewal of one GM maize.   
5.43.  There were also a number of very specific questions on SPS matters. I will try to answer 
these briefly here and suggest that the individual countries concerned follow -up if necessary with 
the EU Delegation in the mar gins of the SPS Committee which meets here next week.  
5.44.  Firstly, India mentioned anthroquinone in tea and reported that EU consumers were being 
deprived of the wonderful taste of Darjeeling. It has not yet been demonstrated whether the 
residues of anthraquin one found in tea are due to its unauthorised use as a pesticide, or because 
of inappropriate processing, or even because of environmental contamination. Based on scientific 
evidence, we doubled the MRLS for anthroquinone in tea in 2015. The EU is ready to assist non -EU 
countries on the analytical methods or on any other technical information that would be needed to 
achieve the level of residues requested by us. This offer was already expressed to Chinese and 
Indian authorities in 2015 and 2016, respectively . I would also refer you to our written answers to 
questions 22 -24 from Indonesia.  
5.45.  Secondly, both Vietnam and India asked about the basis for our setting MRLs for tricyclazole 
in rice. In 2015, the European Food Safety Authority EFSA published a Peer revie w on the 
substance in which the non -renewal of the substance was suggested. On the basis of this 
assessment, the EU decided to set the MRL at the default level of 0.01 mg/kg. In so doing, we 
recognized the specific growing conditions for basmati rice and d elayed the entry of force of the 
new MRL to accommodate that. And, as I mentioned a moment ago, the EU is ready to assist 
non-EU countries on the analytical methods or on any other technical information that would be 
needed to reach the residues levels req uired by us.  
5.46.  Thirdly, Nepal asked if we could have reduced SPS requirements for LDCs. Here, the EU is 
committed to act in line with Article 10 of the SPS Agreement concerning special and differential 
treatment. The EU is also a major provider of technical  assistance to help LDCs build their SPS 
capacities.  
5.47.  Fourthly, Peru had asked why foods that were not on the EU market in May 1997 were 
subject to the EU Novel Foods Regulations. The new novel food regulation provides for a simplified 
procedure for placing  on the EU market traditional foods from third countries. This procedure 
provides a faster and more proportionate safety assessment and allows traditional biodiversity 
foods to be authorized in the EU by a simple notification once the history of safe use i n at least one 
non-EU country has been demonstrated. This is an important improvement to the current situation 
where such traditional foods need to undergo the full authorisation procedure.  
5.48.  I would now like to come back to the discussant's question regard ing the compliance of the 
EU with TBT obligations, in particular his reference to the need to wait for six months (following 
the date that it has been notified to the TBT Committee) before adopting a draft measure. Allow 
me to clarify: the TBT Agreement do es not entail an obligation for a six month waiting period 
between the notification of a draft measure and its adoption. Article 2.9.2 of the Agreement, the 
transparency cornerstone on TBT notifications, refers only to an obligation to notify draft measure s 
with a significant effect on trade which are not based on an international standard. There is no 
6-month requirement. The Appellate Body has never pronounced on any time requirement with 
regard to Article 2.9.2. It has, however, pronounced on a 6 -month r equirement for Article 2.12 in WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  US-Clove Cigarettes, to which we consider the discussant hints at; but that requirement concerns 
the "reasonable interval" between publication and entry into force.  
5.49.  Regarding the US remark that EU assistance to third countri es would be conditioned on the 
recipient's acceptance of EU standards, I would have to disagree. We have received several 
questions on this issue from the US and provided written replies. It is clear that our European 
neighbours naturally consider regional  integration with the EU as being conducive to their 
economic development and applying EU standards is a logical means to ensuring simplified access 
to the EU market. History shows that all countries which have either joined the EU as full Members 
or integ rated to some extent with the EU Single Market have benefitted from it in terms of their 
economic growth.  
Block 6: Sustainable development, environment and climate  
5.50.  Six, many Members referred to the EU's focus on sustainable development and our position 
on environmental and climate issues.  
5.51.  Here, I would recall that sustainability remains a top priority for EU trade policy. The EU will 
continue to reinforce its agenda to promote sustainable development, human rights and good 
governance, in the spirit of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. We will continue 
to focus on environmental and climate priorities, and support eligible developing countries through 
our GSP scheme.  
5.52.  We welcome the numerous expressions of support made by Members regarding fur ther 
progress in EGA negotiations. The EU remains committed to this process and calls on involved 
Members to properly re -engage to bring negotiations to a successful close. On climate issues, the 
EU remains fully and unequivocally committed to implementing  the Paris Climate Convention.  
5.53.  With regard to the EU's duty -free quota -free scheme for LDCs exports, which is known as 
the Everything But Arms initiative, I would like to recall that it is the most advanced, ambitious 
and far -reaching unilateral preference  given by any Member to the LDCs. There are currently 
49 beneficiaries of the scheme.  
5.54.  As mentioned in my opening statement, the EU has a comprehensive policy of providing 
support to developing countries and particularly the LDCs. Unilateral concessions ar e one element; 
our broad Aid for Trade and development aid scheme constitute another.  
Block 7 - Customs  
5.55.  Seven, numerous comments were made about the Union Customs Code and the 
implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
5.56.  The EU is a staunch supporte r of the Trade Facilitation Agreement. We continue to be 
strongly committed to assisting developing countries implement the agreement. Hence, we will 
continue to provide technical and financial assistance to make this objective a reality.  
5.57.  The EU remains de dicated to introducing further improvements in our customs regime. The 
new Union Customs Code (UCC) responds to this objective. It aims to address the challenges of 
today including increasing trade volumes and value chains by providing tools that simplify customs 
procedures. The UCC takes an important step forward in the direction of ensuring uniform 
application of customs rules, within nevertheless the context of an EU system composed of 
28 separate customs administrations.  
Block 8 - IPR 
5.58.  Eight, on intellec tual property, the discussant and some Members have noted the impact 
which imports of counterfeit and pirated goods have on the EU market and emphasized the 
general need to address infringements of intellectual property rights in the online environment, in  
particular as regards copyrights. Let me assure you that important work was undertaken to further 
modernize the legislative framework for copyright protection and enforcement with a particular 
focus on copyright -protected goods in the online environment. For this purpose, a number of WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  legislative proposals were submitted by the European Commission in September 2016. Meanwhile, 
work progressed also on the review of the IPR enforcement regime in the EU, again with a 
particular focus on the need to adapt the r egime to respond to challenges in the online 
environment. In recognition of the key role that intellectual property rights play in the EU 
economy, we remain fully committed to continue our efforts in this regard.  
5.59.  There have also been questions raised on th e EU trademark reform package and the 
possibility to interrupt goods in transit in the EU, in particular as regards generic medicines. Let 
me first clarify that the new rules do not raise obstacles to legitimate trade in non -infringing 
goods, including leg itimately traded generic medicines. The new trademark provisions on goods in 
transit apply only in respect of goods which bear without authorisation a trademark which is 
identical with an EU trademark or which cannot be distinguished in its essential aspec ts from that 
trademark. The new rules do not apply to other intellectual property rights such as patents and 
designs.  
5.60.  Regarding the statements made by delegates in relation to GIs, let me start by saying that 
the EU trade policy promotes protection of Geog raphical Indications in support of producers of 
products sold domestically and at international level. However, GIs are not an EU -only interest. 
Many countries, including developing countries, are convinced that GI protection adds value to the 
product. The  EU system of GI protection is open to applications by third countries.  
5.61.  The reciprocal protection of GIs under bilateral trade agreements helps to secure the 
intellectual property rights of producers, prevents unfair competition, and meets consumer 
expect ations for such products. It should also be noted that under such agreements, prior right 
holders' interests are respected and generic terms in either territory are excluded from protection.  
5.62.  In relation to the possible extension of GIs from agricultural t o non -agricultural products, 
there is no final decision yet despite big interests by some trade partners.  
Block 9: - Single market and digital single market  
5.63.  Nine, as also acknowledged by some of you on Wednesday, the Single Market is one of 
Europe's great est achievements, designed to allow goods, services, capital and people to move 
more freely. Its effectiveness and preservation is at the heart of the European project and we are 
continuing working to adapt it to today's realities.   
5.64.  Among several actions under the Single Market Strategy, the European Commission has 
made it a priority to create a Digital Single Market. In particular, actions are taken for facilitating 
cross-border e -commerce, especially for SMEs and to tackling geo -blocking: too many Europe ans 
cannot use online services that are available in other EU countries; or they are re -routed to a local 
store with different prices.  
Block 10 - Services  
5.65.  Regarding India's call for the EU Member States to implement the Intra -Corporate Transfer 
(ICT) dire ctive, it is important to stress that several individual EU Member States already had 
national rules in place for admitting intra -corporate transferees and that the Directive simply 
replaces these with a harmonised, EU -wide scheme which simplifies and impr oves the situation as 
it offers mobility between EU Member States for non -EU staff (excluding UK, IE and DK that opted 
out). The Commission is actively monitoring the implementation of this important directive by 
Member States.  
Other issues  
5.66.  Finally, before  concluding, I would like to address a number of other specific issues that 
have been raised.  
5.67.  On government procurement, EU Member States publish on the Tenders Electronic Daily 
(TED) platform all contracts with a total value above the GPA thresholds. The  contracting authority 
may also publish below thresholds contracts in TED on a voluntary basis. This is the reason behind 
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  5.68.  The rules for the EU's prior surveillance mechanism for certa in steel products were 
discussed at length both at the Committee on Import Licensing and at the Committee on 
Safeguards. The purpose of this scheme is to collect information about the intention to import from 
all non -EU member countries (with the exception  of Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein). This data 
is necessary to deal with the vulnerability of the EU steel market to sudden changes on world steel 
markets.  
5.69.  The prior surveillance regulation was recently amended to increase the exemption threshold 
up to  5000 kg for certain products. This will reduce the number of transaction falling under 
surveillance. Furthermore, the amended law explicitly encourages national authorities to accept 
handling the procedure in a paperless way. The European Commission is al so working in parallel 
on a draft interpretative notice to respond to requests for clarification received from stakeholders 
and ensure the uniform interpretation of existing surveillance rules.  
5.70.  The discussant referred to the shipment of hazardous waste. Th e EU is fully in compliance 
with the Basel Convention and has set out a detailed legal framework for dealing with hazardous 
waste in the Waste Shipment Regulation. The EU has notified its scheme in its annual 
questionnaire on its import license procedures.  The question raised does not therefore refer to our 
legal environment, but rather to enforcement activities. In this context, if the discussant or other 
WTO Members are in the possession of specific information regarding unlawful shipments, I would 
urge t hem to contact the relevant authorities in the EU.  
5.71.  Russia raised a question regarding unsafe third -country nuclear power plants. I have taken 
note of Russia's views regarding the written response provided. I would however reiterate that the 
question relat es to a measure taken very recently and that the EU's principles regarding 
transparency, due process and the rule of law actually require some time to investigate the 
matter.  
5.72.  With regard to Russia's question on the North Stream 2 pipeline, the Commission has not 
disputed that the EU Gas Directive from 2009 does not explicitly apply to offshore parts of 
pipelines bringing gas from third countries to the EU, even though the Commission has expressed 
on many occasions that this project is not in line with the EU's Energy Union objectives and it does 
not therefore see the need for new gas infrastructure projects of such magnitude. I would add that 
on 9 June 2017, the Commission submitted to the Council a recommendation for a mandate to 
enter into negotiations wi th the Russian Federation on the conclusion of an international 
agreement concerning North Stream 2, which would ensure that the project is not operated in a 
legal void or according to a third country's energy laws only.  
5.73.  With regard to Russia's questions on autonomous measures for Ukraine, these were taken 
in the context of our bilateral trade liberalisation efforts, which are compatible with GATT 
Article  XXIV. Our recent measures were driven by the fact that Ukraine could not fully profit from 
our DCFTA g iven the disruption and extraordinary fall in the GDP of Ukraine in 2014 and 2015.   
5.74.  And finally, many Members expressed their concerns and wishes regarding the Brexit issue. 
Here, I would reiterate what we have said in our written responses.  
5.75.  Following th e UK Government's formal notification to the European Council of its intention to 
withdraw from the EU, negotiations have now started. Until its withdrawal, the UK remains a 
Member State of the European Union with all rights and obligations of a Member Sta te. We will 
revert to the WTO Membership at an appropriate moment in the future after engaging with the UK 
bilaterally.  
5.76.  I would take this opportunity to thank you once again for all the comments made and 
questions raised. The EU considers this exercise to  be important for broader transparency in this 
organisation. Nevertheless, we should remember that the TPR is not the only occasion for a frank 
discussion. Numerous points made over the last few days could equally well be addressed by 
experts in the contex t of the WTO's regular committee work. I would urge Members to fully 
engage in these regular discussions. I would further ask that Members take the time to get 
acquainted with the written responses that we have provided and will provide to the over 
1000 questions we have received for this TPR.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  5.77.  The EU is committed to making the TPR process effective and useful. We have made several 
suggestions on how this could be achieved during the latest TPRB appraisal. We would encourage 
Members to also look for possibl e ways of further improving the process.  
5.78.  The EU stands ready to provide further clarifications either today or in the future.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.79.  Señor Presidente, Embajador Juan Carlos Gonzalez, Sr. Joost Korte, Director General 
Adjunto de Comercio de la Comisión  Europea, Embajador Vanheukelen, Estimados colegas.  
5.80.  En estos dos días hemos sido testigos del gran interés de la Membresía en el examen de la 
política comercial de la Unión Europea (UE), como lo demuestran las 57 delegaciones que 
intervinieron y en las má s de 1,000 preguntas presentadas en la UE incluyendo preguntas de 
seguimiento que se recibieron en las últimas horas.  
5.81.  De las declaraciones mencionadas se recoge lo siguiente:  
5.82.  Se resaltó el papel fundamental que la UE juega para el sistema multilateral del  comercio y 
el liderazgo de la UE de cara a la siguiente Conferencia Ministerial en Buenos Aires, en especial la 
labor de la Misión ante la OMC.  
5.83.  Se destacó la participación y liderazgo de la UE en las iniciativas plurilaterales en materia de 
bienes ambien tales, tecnologías de la información y comercio de servicios.  
5.84.  Para alrededor de 80 Miembros, la UE es el principal socio comercial y una de las principales 
fuentes de inversión extranjera directa. Es por ello que la relación de los Miembros con la UE a 
nivel bilateral resulta crucial.  
5.85.  Muchos Miembros expresaron que comparten con la UE una visión más allá del comercio en 
temas tales como desarrollo sostenible, derechos humanos y democracia.  
5.86.  Las implicaciones del proceso del Brexit tanto para la UE, el Reino  Unido, la propia OMC y la 
Membresía fue un tema recurrente tanto en las preguntas de los Miembros como en sus 
intervenciones. Cabe destacar la información otorgada por el señor Joost Korte al respecto.  
5.87.  Los Miembros han encomiado a la UE a continuar con s us reformas estructurales, en 
especial para que se pueda disminuir las distintas brechas de desarrollo económico entre los 
Estados miembros de la UE.  
5.88.  La Comisión Europea tiene la competencia exclusiva en materia de inversión. En este 
contexto, varias deleg aciones solicitaron conocer más detalle sobre la propuesta de la UE de 
reformar el sistema de protección de la inversión y solución de diferencias inversionista -Estado, en 
particular para crear una corte de inversiones, así como su coexistencia a futuro co n los acuerdos 
bilaterales de inversión entre los Estados miembros de la UE y los Miembros de la OMC.  
5.89.  Ante la expansión del comercio electrónico y la economía digital, los Miembros tomaron nota 
de las acciones internas en la UE sobre esta materia, en parti cular las acciones para la estrategia 
del mercado único digital.  
5.90.  Los Miembros destacaron los esfuerzos de la UE en materia de protección del medio 
ambiente, especialmente a través de la ratificación del Acuerdo de París.  
5.91.  La excelente relación de la UE con  los Miembros no está exenta de algunos aspectos 
contenciosos, los cuales se pueden clasificar en las siguientes categorías:  
5.92.  En agricultura existen una serie de medidas que afectan el sector agrícola tales como 
aranceles altos, picos arancelarios y contin gentes arancelarios. Sus aranceles son en promedio tres 
veces más altos que los no agrícolas. Ello es relevante porque para muchos países, especialmente 
en desarrollo son justamente este tipo de productos los que más se exportan a la UE. En cuanto al WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  nivel de apoyo doméstico, si bien destacaron la reducción de los subsidios más distorsionantes, 
algunos Miembros mostraron preocupación por el crecimiento de los niveles en caja verde.  
5.93.  Respecto a medidas sanitarias y fitonisatarias los Miembros expresaron preoc upaciones 
respecto a la regulación de disruptores endocrinos por lo que se refiere al enfoque científico y 
basado en riesgo.  
5.94.  Por lo que se refiere a obstáculos técnicos al comercio los Miembros manifestaron 
preocupaciones porque algunas medidas pudieran tr ansformarse en barreras comerciales.  
5.95.  Algunos Miembros resaltaron el aumento de acciones en materia de remedios comerciales o 
de medidas de vigilancia, en particular en el contexto de la sobrecapacidad mundial de acero, y 
llamaron a evitar el abuso en el us o de tales medidas.  
5.96.  Mientras unos Miembros destacaron la labor de la UE como proponente en subsidios a la 
pesca, otros expresaron críticas a fin de que exista más transparencia y se reduzcan los subsidios 
en este sector.  
5.97.  Finalmente, después de estos dos d ías de intenso examen reitero lo comentado el primer 
día, la UE tiene un crítico papel que jugar en el sistema multilateral del comercio, lo que suceda 
con la Unión nos debe ocupar a todos; cualquier acción u omisión, positiva o negativa, tiene un 
impacto de largo alcance en el sistema.   
5.98.  En este sentido, celebramos el ejercicio de permanente introspección que la UE hace, y que 
se traduce en un proceso de reforma continua de sus políticas públicas, pero también invitamos a 
la Unión a tomar en cuenta las pre ocupaciones expresadas por la Membresía en ocasión de este 
décimo tercer examen de políticas comerciales, y que considere las mismas como 
retroalimentación a tal proceso de reformas.  
5.99.  Esperamos que esta 13º examen se traduce en un aliciente para fortalecer a la UE y a la 
OMC. Muchas gracias.  
ALBANIA  
5.100.   Being the world's largest trader in commercial services, second -largest in terms of GDP, 
and the largest donors of official development assistance, the European Union and its member's 
states represent for many ec onomies in the World the best example for success.  
5.101.   Albania is following with great interest the TPR of the European Union as the EU remains 
our important strategic and economic partner. Albania has established a long term economic and 
political and econom ic relationship of integration with EU. Providing a regular assistance and 
support for more than two decades to consolidate democracy and market oriented economy, 
Albania enjoys the status of a candidate country to join the EU, expecting the opening soon t he 
formal accession negotiations.   
5.102.   Getting this privileged status vis -à-vis EU, allow me to further present the followings:  
5.103.   We would like to reiterate the value of our trade relationship with EU and the important 
role that the EU plays in the multilatera l trading system. The European Union has played a vital 
role in Albanian's economic transformation and competitiveness, good governance, rule of law 
through substantive financial assistance support for the period of 2014 -2020. The assistance 
provided has c ontributed towards a sustained economic growth of the country. Therefore, it's with 
special attention that we follow the macroeconomic developments, trade and trade -related policies 
as well as the evolution of the monetary crisis in the euro area.  
5.104.   Albania' s relationship with the EU remains governed by the 2009 Stabilisation and 
Association Agreement (SAA). The candidate country status definitely raises the relationship 
between Albania and the EU to a higher level, and looking ahead to the opening of accessi on 
negotiations as an advancement of Albania businesses toward the EU internal market and free 
trade with all Member States.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  5.105.   Albania has also benefitted from the EU's strong support, over many years, for tariff 
preferences granted as the Autonomous Trade Measures (ATMs) in 2000 and subsequently 
renewed in 2005 and 2011 until the end of 2016.  
5.106.   Albania follows the development in EU trade policy with a view to be acquainted and 
pursue a careful approximation with EU Common Commercial Policy. This Trade Policy  Review 
provides a good opportunity in this regard and we are pleased to the presentation and discussion 
of EU TPR.  
5.107.   The process of reform of the Common Agricultural Policy and the new framework for direct 
payments and rural development as well as the proc ess of harmonization of EU standards and 
technical requirements presented with the Alignment Package of eight directives in February 2014.  
5.108.   the proposal adapted by the Commission for a package of measures affecting the agri -food 
chain, as agriculture is a key economic sector employing more than 40% of the country's 
workforce.  
5.109.   We welcome the latest development of the EU in reference to electronic customs initiative 
that includes an automatic import/export system and single window. We are closely following 
these new initiatives presented by the EU with great interest.  
5.110.   Recalling the obligations that derive from the WTO trade facilitation agreement, Albania is 
fully committed to take necessary measures in order to further facilitate trade in the region as well  
as with the EU countries and worldwide. In this context, implementation of a single window 
system, as well as mutual recognitions agreement for AEOs (Authorised Economic Operator) will 
further facilitate the trade thus remains top priorities on the agenda  of Albanian Authorities.  
5.111.   Therefore, we value the EU contribution in shaping a system of global trade rules that 
keeps the global economy open for trade as well as reflects and respect the needs and concerns of 
developing countries.  
5.112.   As conclusion, Albania  wishes to the European Union a successful and productive TPR.  
CAMBODIA  ON BEHALF  OF THE LDC GROUP  
5.113.   The European Union is certainly the world's largest and most integrated trading bloc, which 
plays a key role in world trade as the second largest exporter an d importer of goods and services.  
5.114.   We noted that following a recession in the wake of the 2008 international financial crisis, 
the European Union is now experiencing a positive economic growth of about 1.8% of GDP, with a 
stable outlook for the next review period.  
5.115.   In order to strengthen its economy and its growth dynamic, the European Union has 
launched, at the end of 2015, a new trade and investment policy called: "Trade for All: Towards a 
more responsible trade and investment policy".  
5.116.   On the one hand, the aim of this policy is to improve the integration of the EU's internal 
market by streamlining its regulation policy, improving the movement of goods, better integrating 
the market for services, getting a mutual recognition of professional qualifications, de veloping a 
digital single market strategy, and taking into account the environment and climate change.  
5.117.   On the other hand, the policy aims to further open up the EU market, in particular to 
developing country partners, in line with EU's principles of fair t rade and responsible and inclusive 
trade.  
5.118.   From this point of view, the LDC Group welcomes some progress made by the European 
Union in favour of a better integration of our countries into the world trading system and a better 
capacity for our countries to g enerate revenues from exports of goods and services.  
5.119.   In particular, LDCs welcome the increase in the number of products benefiting from the 
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  (page 53). We al so welcome the EU's strong exemption duties rate for agricultural products from 
the LDCs, which is currently still in 100%.  
5.120.   On the agricultural aspect, LDCs welcome the reduction of the market support measures 
granted by the EU, which represented less than  5% of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) 
budget in 2015. Similarly, LDCs welcome the EU's compliance with the Nairobi Ministerial Decision 
on Export Competition. The Government's report states that no export subsidies have been 
granted during the review  period.  
5.121.   Another important aspect for the LDC integration into the world trading system is the 
improvement of their capacity to export services. In this regard, LDCs welcome the EU notification 
to the WTO, in November 2015, of its preferential treatment of  services exports from LDCs, as part 
of the LDC services waiver. However, we have engaged bilaterally with the EU and at the Council 
for Trade in Services to urge the EU to implement the Nairobi LDC Services Waiver Implementation 
Decision to provide capaci ty building and to launch awareness building initiatives to help LDC 
suppliers on the ground to benefit from the notified preferences.   
5.122.   In addition, the LDC Group has sought clarification from the EU on how assistance can be 
provided to enable LDC indepen dent professionals and contractual services suppliers who are 
qualified to fulfil residency requirements in the EU should they be successful applicants. We believe 
that the EU has a robust technical assistance and capacity building programme that can provi de 
specific assistance in LDCs to improve services suppliers in LDCs to take advantage of the 
preferences provided. We also encourage the EU to consider removing certain regulatory barriers 
to LDC supplier market access, which are currently not covered by the notified preferences.  
5.123.   We appreciate the information provided by the Secretariat report on developments in the 
EU on fisheries programmes for sustainable management of fisheries resources and measures to 
reduce overcapacity, reflected in the Common Fish eries Policy, which took effect in January 2014. 
We note that the report indicated that EU fishing outside of EU waters is done through Sustainable 
Fisheries Partnership Agreements and Regional Fisheries Management Organization.  In that light 
we hope that  the EU is considering special treatment of LDC coastal states, including capacity 
building and assistance to the development of LDC fisheries sectors.  The LDC Group is preparing a 
text based proposal for the negotiations on fisheries subsidies discipline s and looks forward to EU 
support in that regard toward a concrete outcome at MC11.  
5.124.   Addressing non -tariff barriers are highlighted as another objective of the EU. The 
Secretariat report registered EU efforts to internally harmonize technical standards and SPS 
measures. However, the report notes that compliance with such EU measures adds to the cost of 
doing business in the EU. For LDCs this is particularly high, especially when the EU is the largest 
user of trade defence measures to protect its agriculture sector as well.  
5.125.   Finally, in terms of Aid for Trade, we welcome the reports of the level of the EU's 
commitment, with contributions of about €12 billion per year, accounting for more than a third of 
global support. In addition, this important contribution i s accompanied by trade related assistance, 
notably for capacity -building of public institutions and supporting trade policy reforms. This 
trade-related assistance reached about €3 billion in 2014, well beyond the EU's initial target.    
5.126.   The LDC Group wishe s the EU commitment to assistance for LDCs be strengthened and 
amplified, since, to date, LDCs have only marginally benefited from the potential of exports to the 
EU. Indeed, EU imports from LDCs barely represent 1% of the total imports.  
5.127.   To conclude, the L DC Group particularly appreciates EU's commitments in promoting a 
better LDCs integration into the world trading system.  
5.128.   With a view to increased and positive cooperation with the European Union, Cambodia 
wishes, on behalf of the LDC Group, the European Un ion a successful Trade Policy Review and we 
applaud the reforms undertaken.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  HONDURAS  
5.129.   Europa siempre ha tenido fuertes vínculos culturales, políticos e históricos con Honduras. 
Es por eso que podemos afirmar que la Unión Europea y Honduras mantienen unas e xcelentes 
relaciones las cuales se han consolidado a lo largo del tiempo mediante la firma de acuerdos.  
5.130.   Actualmente, las relaciones políticas de la UE con nuestro país, como parte de 
Centroamérica, se rigen por el Acuerdo de Asociación, firmado en 2012 y q ue estableció tres 
pilares: el diálogo político, la cooperación y el comercio. Es indudable que nuestras relaciones 
económicas con la UE, se intensificaron con la puesta en vigencia el Acuerdo de Asociación, y el 
pilar comercial, ha sido fundamental para e l desarrollo de esas sólidas relaciones económicas y 
comerciales.  
5.131.   Con la puesta en vigencia del Acuerdo de Asociación, ambas partes nos comprometimos a 
poner en marcha medidas para favorecer el desarrollo económico, teniendo en cuenta intereses 
mutuos como  la erradicación de la pobreza, la creación de empleo y el desarrollo justo y 
sostenible. Al mismo tiempo, el Acuerdo estableció una zona de libre comercio favoreciendo la 
inversión y la competitividad de la región centroamericana.  
5.132.   Tal como lo indican los informes de la Comisión Europea, después de tres años de la 
entrada en vigor del pilar comercial, el proceso de aplicación avanza con paso firme y el marco 
institucional con arreglo al Acuerdo está funcionando bien. A pesar de las tendencias globales 
negat ivas en el entorno comercial centroamericano, los flujos comerciales entre la UE y 
Centroamérica han resultado bastante dinámicos y las exportaciones de Centroamérica a la UE 
aumentaron por término medio un 13,8 % en 2015, con la notable contribución de la  recuperación 
de las exportaciones de la industria del café, que crecieron un 34 % con respecto al año anterior.  
5.133.   Honduras aporta el 32% del total exportado a la UE por la región Centroamericana, 
mientras que la UE es el segundo socio comercial del país. E n el año 2015, la balanza comercial 
fue favorable a Honduras, con un balance de casi 260 millones de dólares EE.UU. y a junio de 
2017 se registró un superávit de 313.2 millones de dólares EE.UU, mayor en 234.0 millones de 
dólares EE.UU. al del primer trime stre de 2016, sobresaliendo las exportaciones de productos 
como café, aceite de palma y camarones.  
5.134.   Por otro lado, las exportaciones de la UE a Centroamérica han tenido un nivel de 
crecimiento con un fuerte aumento del 22% en 2015.  
5.135.   Al mismo tiempo, el Acuer do de Asociación también ha reforzado la integración económica 
regional entre los países de América Central y prueba de ello es el reciente Proyecto de Integración 
Económica Regional Centroamericana (INTEC) cuyo objetivo general es fortalecer la Integració n 
Económica en Centroamérica y maximizar los beneficios de la implementación del Acuerdo de 
Asociación entre la Unión Europea y Centroamérica (AACUE).  
5.136.   Es de hacer notar que este nuevo programa está alineado con la Estrategia 
Centroamericana de Facilitación  del Comercio y la Competitividad, la Hoja de Ruta para la Unión 
Aduanera Centroamericana y el Acuerdo de Facilitación del Comercio y será un instrumento de 
apoyo a la facilitación del comercio y a las capacidades comerciales de la región.  
5.137.   La UE es el pri ncipal donante del mundo, y Honduras es el segundo país de Latinoamérica 
que más aportes recibe de la Unión por lo que agradecemos a la UE su apoyo en sectores tales 
como salud, la educación, la seguridad, la protección del medio ambiente, la seguridad ali mentaria 
y la descentralización entre otros y lo que redunda en un bienestar colectivo de la sociedad.  
5.138.   En relación con los informes presentados, destacamos la importancia del comercio de la UE 
para la economía, donde las exportaciones e importaciones de m ercancías ascendieron a 
3,518  billones de euros y las de servicios a 1,517 billones de euros, lo que resulta que la UE sigue 
siendo de vital importancia para el comercio mundial, al ser el segundo principal exportador e 
importador de mercancías, el mayor e xportador e importador de servicios y el principal interlocutor 
comercial de 80 países, incluido nuestro país.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  5.139.   Destacamos la entrada en vigencia de las principales disposiciones del nuevo código 
aduanero de la Unión, así como la adopción de una serie de me didas legislativas de reforma para 
las marcas de fábrica o de comercio y una Directiva sobre los secretos comerciales así como los 
pasos para avanzar en el establecimiento del marco administrativo de la patente unitaria.  
5.140.   De los Informes se desprende que en  2017, se ha adoptado también un nuevo reglamento 
que tiene por objeto mejorar el perfil de liquidez y la estabilidad de los fondos del mercado 
monetario domiciliado o vendido en Europa  
5.141.   Destacamos que la UE y sus Estados miembros son Miembros importantes de la OMC, y la 
evolución de sus políticas generales y específicas y de su economía afecta a muchos otros países 
por consiguiente, las políticas de comercio e inversión de la UE son importantes para otros países y 
para el sistema multilateral de comercio, e interesa a la membrecía la forma en que la UE afronta 
esas dificultades.  
5.142.   Finalmente, Honduras felicita a la Unión Europea, por sus importantes esfuerzos y logros 
durante el período de examen y les deseamos el mayor de los éxitos en la presentación de su  
Examen de Políticas Comerciales.  
NEW  ZEALAND  
5.143.   I would just like to commend DDG Korte for the most clear and structured manner in 
which he set out the response today as indeed he did the other day. I think that it greatly aids the 
understanding of us all as  participants in these trade policy reviews and this is something that has 
to be taken as exemplary.  
5.144.   I appreciate that New Zealanders are recognized as creative in many areas and, indeed, I 
am hoping to witness some creativity in tomorrow morning, but I th ink in the case of AVEs on 
dairy products it is less a case of creativity than of unacknowledged plagiarism from Table 3.6 of 
the Secretariat report.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.145.   Let me first thank the EU team, both those present here this morning and undoubtedly 
many mo re colleagues in Brussels for their considerable efforts in preparing for and participating in 
this review.  
5.146.   In this TPR, the EU has sustained a well -established track record of serious engagement 
with this important aspect of the WTO's work. We saw this co mmitment exhibited as well last year 
during the periodic Appraisal of the TPRM in which the EU consistently sought to improve the 
functioning of the TPR process. Here I might just note that I think the suggestion this morning 
about potentially linking noti fications performance in the TPR process might be quite an interesting 
subject for the next Appraisal.  
5.147.   In any case, the United States greatly appreciates the EU's support for this process and we 
have seen that demonstrated again this week in the preparatio n and engagement we have seen 
from Mr. Korte and his delegation. I would like to especially acknowledge the very thorough 
remarks we have heard this morning from Mr. Korte. Clearly the EU worked very hard to process 
the views delivered by Members on Wednes day and we appreciate the responses presented this 
morning.  
5.148.   The United States won't be persuaded by every response but we do appreciate the detailed 
engagement we have seen from the EU. We have also appreciated the contributions of 
Ambassador Zapata as dis cussant for this TPR and those of the Secretariat in presenting very solid 
materials for Members to draw from in preparing for our participation in this review. We agree with 
Mr. Korte's observation on Wednesday that the TPR documentation produced by the S ecretariat is 
a tremendously rich resource for understanding the trade policies and processes of all Members 
and perhaps particularly so with regard to a Member whose trade policy processes often appear to 
be especially elaborate and complex.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  5.149.   This morning,  I wish to very briefly mention a few points and observations arising from the 
first day of this Review including based upon the statements we have heard from other Members.  
5.150.   While not directly highlighted in our own statement it has been striking to observ e the 
huge interest within our Membership on the trade - and WTO -specific implications of the United 
Kingdom's prospective withdrawal from the EU. As is the case with other Members, the United 
States will be approaching these issues with keen interest and o bviously with the determination to 
ensure that our exporters of goods and suppliers of services suffer no disadvantages as a result of 
the Brexit process. We look forward to engaging with both the UK and the EU authorities on these 
questions when the time is right.  
5.151.   With respect to other specific issues raised in written questions and during the course of 
Wednesday's meeting, we note the heavy emphasis and shared concerns of many Members with 
respect to matters relating to the EU's implementation of the SPS and TBT obligations. Our 
bilateral engagement with the EU over a great many years has taught us how difficult these issues 
are to navigate. But it is critical that the EU continue to engage with the United States and all 
Members with similar concerns in or der to reduce sources of trade friction in these areas.  
5.152.   We would emphasize again today, as we did on Wednesday, our deep concerns with 
respect to quite recent actions of the EU with regard to the regulation of endocrine disruptors. As 
in the case of many o ther products and substances over the years, these recent moves appear to 
place considerations of hazard over considerations of risk in ways that have been proven to be 
problematic against the backdrop of the obligations of the SPS Agreement. We note that this 
particular issue was raised by nearly a quarter of Members taking the floor in Wednesday's 
meeting and we hope these concerns can be taken into account with urgency. We appreciate what 
we heard this morning about the process remaining open but we do h ope that there will be 
continued opportunities to pursue the concerns that have been raised in many successive 
meetings of the SPS Committee.  
5.153.   Finally, the United States felt that the concerns raised by one Member concerning a trade 
remedies related matter  currently in dispute were unappropriated for this forum. As the United 
States has stated multiple times in various fora in this Organization, we do not consider it 
appropriate for Members to discuss matters currently in dispute outside of the DSB. The Uni ted 
States has covered in the DSB the issue of the meaning attached to a single provision of China's 
protocol of accession and we would refer all Members of this Body to the full statement delivered 
by the United States in the DSB.  
5.154.   To conclude, we thank ag ain the EU for its diligence in approaching this exercise and we 
hope that this TPR has been as useful for the EU as it has been for the United States and other 
Members.  
JAPAN  
5.155.   First, let me thank the EU delegation for providing us with comprehensive and in formative 
oral explanations. We would also like to express our appreciation for the insightful comments from 
the discussant, Ambassador Zapata, as well as the hard work done by the Secretariat for this TPR.  
5.156.   As mentioned by DDG Korte, Japan and the EU reached an agreement in principle on an 
Economic Partnership Agreement. This is a clear message from Japan and the EU to reaffirm our 
strong commitment to the free trade. In the current rise of anti -globalization  sentiment and 
protectionism.  
5.157.   We are confident that this EPA will not only contribute to the economic prosperity of both 
EU and Japan, but also will give a positive impact on global economy.  
5.158.   Japan is willing to work closely with the EU together with other Members for our common 
objectives of maintaining and strengthening the multilateral trading system including a successful 
MC11.  
5.159.   To conclude, I would like to congratulate the European Union for this successful TPR.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  CHINA  
5.160.   My delegation values very much the e xchanges with our EU colleagues on policies and 
their development under this trade policy review. We commend the EU's positive role in and also 
contribution to the multilateral trading system. We have also given our comments and expressed 
some of our key c oncerns in our bilateral economic and trade relations in a frank manner.  
5.161.   On that, my delegation would like to thank the responses and explanations provided by 
DDG Mr. Korte in his statement. While we may not always agree with each other when going into 
details of some of the issues. We nevertheless see that such dialogue is a reflection of our ever 
close and mature bilateral economic trade and investment relations.  
5.162.   To our satisfaction, such a relationship is solidly based on the core principles and rules of  
the multilateral trading system to which we both have vowed to safeguard.  
5.163.   China looks forward to our continued interaction and cooperation with the EU in the WTO, 
in particular in our work leading up to MC11 in Buenos Aires.  
5.164.   Finally, let me thank the EU d elegation again for the very informative responses and also 
the written replies. We would also like to thank the discussant, Ambassador Zapata and the 
Secretariat for the excellent proceeding of this Trade Policy Review.  
DEPUTY  DIRECTOR -GENERAL  JOOST  KORTE  (HEAD  OF DELEGATION)  
5.165.   Let me also thank everybody for the very rich and good discussion we had again this 
morning and, of course, on Wednesday. I don't see any particular point which I need to really 
respond to other than that we have taken very good note of the fact that 25% of the Members had 
an issue with endocrine disruptors and SPS in general. This, I think, is one of the most important 
messages we have to convey to Brussels. I do acknowledge that point very clearly.  
5.166.   On Brexit, I think I have said all  I could say today, but I can also tell you that we will, of 
course, fully engage with the WTO Membership sooner rather than later. We hope to do this very 
fast. 
5.167.   Those were the main points I would like to respond to and since this is probably the last 
time I can take the floor, not that I regret it because I don't think I have never spoken so much, I 
would like to start by thanking my own team who have done a fantastic job over the last months. 
As I think our colleague from the United States pointed out, th is is a collective effort that requires 
a huge investment from colleagues in DG Trade but also from other services of the Commission 
and also from our Member States. So it is a collective effort that brings together the Commission 
and the Member States for  this exercise. I would also like to thank all those who participated in 
the discussion which was helpful and rich. And, again, we will report all this back and take it 
forward as good as we can. I would also like to thank Ambassador Zapata for his very us eful 
contributions to the discussion and you, Ambassador Gonzalez, for your very skilful handing of this 
meeting. Thank you very much.  WT/TPR/W/133  • European Union  
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  The thirteenth Trade Policy Review of the European Union has offered us a good opp ortunity 
to deepen our understanding of the trade, economic, and investment policies of the EU which 
remains the biggest trader of goods and services in the world and one of the most important 
members of the WTO and the multilateral trading system. Well ov er 1,000 questions were 
submitted to the EU before the meeting from 38 Members and over 50 delegations intervened, 
which itself underlines the importance attached to the EU's trade and investment policies and 
practices. Just as it was in the last Review in  2015, the EU remains of crucial significance to world 
trade; it is the second largest exporter and importer of goods, the largest trader of services and 
ranks first in both inbound and outbound investment.  
6.2.  I would like to thank the EU delegation, led by D eputy Director -General Joost Korte, our 
discussant Ambassador Roberto Zapata Barradas of Mexico and all the delegations that took the 
floor for their valuable contributions to this Review.  
6.3.  The EU is a major trading block not just because it is a big marke t of over 500 million people 
but also because it has an open and transparent trade and investment regime. Members 
appreciated that the EU, as a large open economy, continues to play a crucial role in the global 
economy and international trade. As Mr Korte pointed out in his opening statement, the EU 
remains firmly committed to the multilateral trading system and the principles which the WTO 
represents. Members commended the EU for its continued efforts to advance negotiations inter alia 
on agriculture, disc iplines on fisheries subsidies, environmental goods, and trade in services.  
6.4.  It was also noted that the EU faces several internal problems. As stated by the EU on the first 
day, the euro crisis may be over and unemployment falling. However, the economic rec overy 
across the EU is weak in general and uneven among the Member States. At the same time the 
international trading community faces many uncertainties - notably over Brexit, which will have 
implications for the EU's trading partners and the EU's WTO Sche dule of Commitments. In this 
regard, Members expected that any process to make adjustments to the Schedule of the EU as a 
result of Brexit would be open, transparent, WTO -compliant, and include consultations with third 
countries.  
6.5.  Nevertheless, despite inte rnal problems and global uncertainty, the EU has not retreated 
from trade, nor has it introduced new policies intended to restrict trade. Instead it has continued 
to pursue trade liberalization through bilateral free trade agreements while continuing to pr ovide 
non-reciprocal preferential access for developing countries under the EBA, GSP, and GSP -plus 
schemes. Furthermore, during the review period, the EU contributed to the successful expansion of 
the Information Technology Agreement, and is constructively  engaged in the Environmental Goods 
Agreement and the plurilateral Trade in Services (TISA) negotiations.  
6.6.  Members welcomed the EU's commitment to, and active participation in the WTO, including 
its efforts to make a success of the 11th WTO Ministerial Conf erence which will take place this 
December in Buenos Aires.  
6.7.  Members appreciated that, since the previous Review in 2015, the EU has undertaken several 
initiatives aimed at facilitating trade, including: its ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement;  
and the entry into force of the Union Customs Code to simplify and modernize customs procedures 
which includes the use of improved technology to facilitate trade.  
6.8.  Several delegations also noted that they were following with interest several new 
developmen ts including; implementation of the new trade and investment policy initiatives in the 
Trade For All strategy of October 2015; the digital single market strategy; the e commerce 
package; and the implications of the ruling by the Court of Justice of the EU on competence 
relating to the EU -Singapore Free Trade Agreement. In addition, the importance of labour mobility 
and mutual recognition of qualifications were noted as well as the reform of financial services and 
the liberalization of railways and of port s ervices.  
6.9.  Of course, not all the EU's policies are seen as positive. In particular, many Members noted 
that agriculture remains an exception to the overall openness of the EU's trade regime. They 
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  products, such as agricultural products, fish, and some textiles. High tariffs, tariff escalation, non -
ad valorem tariffs, and the many tariff quotas with high out -of-quota duties continue to be 
significant import barriers. A t the same time, while some Members were concerned about the EU's 
approach to domestic support in the agricultural sector, they commended recent reforms of the 
Common Agricultural Policy towards less trade -distortive measures and fewer payments linked to 
production. However, they remain concerned about the total value of support, voluntary coupled 
support in all -but-one member State, and the absence of market access reform. Furthermore, 
while praising the EU's role in getting an agreement on the elimination  of export subsidies in 
MC10, they noted that the EU has yet to modify its Schedule to reflect the agreement.  
6.10.  Members were encouraged by reforms in fisheries policies and they urged the EU to 
increase transparency and take further steps to reduce support f or fisheries, while welcoming the 
engagement of the EU in the negotiations on fisheries subsidies in line with the sustainable 
development goal target.  
6.11.  Members also raised concerns about the use of trade remedy actions and the trade impact 
of steel surveil lance measures taken by the EU, and encouraged the EU to take such measures in 
accordance with WTO disciplines under its new regulations.  
6.12.  Recognizing the importance of protecting human, animal and plant health as well as the 
environment, some Members state d that a number of sanitary and phytosanitary measures in the 
EU are not based on objective criteria offered by scientific assessments of risk as required under 
the WTO SPS Agreement. In this regard, mention was made inter alia of: the EU's proposed 
regula tions on endocrine disruptors; current maximum residue limits; and delays in the EU's 
authorization process for genetically modified products.  
6.13.  Other points that were raised several times in Members' interventions included the need for  
more information fro m the EU on the public procurement market, the investment regime, the 
concept of the multilateral investment court, geographical indications, the EU's actions on climate 
change, as well as various TBT issues including aspects of the REACH initiative.  
6.14.  In conclusion, Members welcomed the EU's commitment to the multilateral trading system 
and appreciated that the EU remains open to trade and investment. However, several concerns 
remain, some of which have been raised in previous Trade Policy Reviews, such as a gricultural 
policies, SPS and TBT measures, and the use of trade remedies. Furthermore, new issues that 
have arisen over the past two years, such as Brexit, should be addressed, recognizing that many 
WTO Members outside the EU are interested and will be af fected by the results.  
6.15.  I hope that the EU delegation will take into account and further reflect on the many 
constructive comments, both broad and detailed, that it has received during this Review. Finally, I 
would like to thank all those that participated in our discussion, and I look forward to getting the 
answers to any outstanding questions within the next month, at which point the Review will be 
successfully concluded.  
__________