The Advisory Committee on International Trade Negotiations reviews EU trade policy

 

La Advisory Commission on International Trade Negotiations has celebrated its 29th edition, marking a profound review of the trade policy of the European UnionThe meeting, which brought together industry associations, business associations, unions, and social partners, outlined community priorities and guidelines, highlighting economic security as a fundamental pillar and market diversification as a key strategy.

 

Chaired by the Director General of Trade Policy, Julian Conthe, the Commission addressed the complex negotiations with United States in response to the tariff measures implemented by the US administration. The EU reiterated its commitment to dialogue to reach a fair and balanced agreement, while emphasizing the Union's readiness to take action with rebalancing measures if necessary.

 

In this context of global uncertainty, Spain has demonstrated agility with the activation of the Commercial Response and Relaunch PlanThis plan seeks to strengthen the position of the Spanish companies abroad through market diversification and adaptation to volatile environments. Notable initiatives include the "High Impact Plan for Competitiveness" ICEX, designed to boost internationalization and improve the competitiveness of Spanish companies, especially in the face of tariff challenges. The Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Enterprise has also mobilized sectoral working groups and information tools for continuous monitoring of the situation.

 

 

The Director General of International Trade and Investment, Alicia Varela, focused her speech on relations with China, a strategic partner for Spain, including bilateral investments.

 

 

Economic Security and Strategic Alliances

 

The redefinition of EU trade policy seeks to combine open trade with greater resilience and economic security in an increasingly volatile international environment. Both the European Union and Spain, as a Member State, are working to strengthen their strategic autonomy and economic security with an open approach.

 

Key priorities include strengthening alliances with new partners with a common vision, reducing critical vulnerabilities and dependencies, and maintaining leadership in defending open, rules-based international trade.

 

The Commission reported on progress in trade agreements with strategic partners to boost market diversification. The situation of the Agreement between the EU and Mercosur, whose negotiations have concluded and the presentation of the texts is expected to advance the adoption process.

 

The Indo-Pacific region was identified as another priority area for diversification. In the region ASEAN, the political closure was announced with Indonesia and active negotiations are ongoing with Thailand, the Philippines, and Malaysia. In addition, dialogue is held with countries such as India and the United Arab Emirates, exploring new avenues for cooperation in digital trade and sustainable investment. Finally, the agreement with Ukraine for additional reciprocal liberalization within the Free Trade Agreement in force since 2016 was mentioned.