cross-posted from: https://mander.xyz/post/53719117
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The EU and four Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) States (Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius, and Seychelles) concluded negotiations on an enhanced Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA).
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This Agreement will set a new standard for EU-Africa economic relations by providing clear rules and opportunities on:
Services and investment: the enhanced EPA improves legal certainty and conditions for companies supplying services in each other's market. It also provides greater predictability for investors and ensures fair and non-discriminatory treatment.
Public procurement: businesses will have access to clear and transparent information on public procurement opportunities. This will make it easier for businesses on both sides to take part in public tendering and will support ESA States' expected economic growth and modernization plans.
Intellectual property: the enhanced EPA establishes a modern and predictable framework covering all major categories of intellectual property and strengthens enforcement tools to support innovative and creative industries in ESA States. It will also protect 135 EU Geographical Indications (GIs) in Madagascar, Mauritius, and Seychelles, after a transition period.
Digital trade: the deal will make it easier to carry out digital transactions and trade using electronic means without applying customs duties on electronic transmissions. It will enhance online consumer protection and reduce unnecessary red tape. This allows the EU and the ESA States to promote and support digital trade more widely.
Sustainability: the deal contains binding and enforceable commitments, as well as cooperation provisions, in a dedicated Trade and Sustainable Development chapter.
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The EU is ESA4's largest trading partner, accounting for 24% of its total trade in goods and for 33% of its total trade in services.
In 2024, total trade in goods and services between the EU and the ESA4 States reached €9.7 billion, comprising €5.2 billion in EU imports and €4.5 billion in EU exports.
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