Sweden's priorities in the EU’s trade policy review
Published
The EU’s external trade policy is being reviewed so it can be adapted to changing global trade conditions. The review aims at finding better solutions to reduce trade barriers and support open and sustainable trade. It will also include proposals on reform of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and how the EU can contribute to reinforcing the multilateral trade system.
Sweden intends to be the EU's frontrunner on free and open trade and together with a number of likeminded countries (Czechia, Denmark, Finland, Ireland and the Netherlands), Sweden submitted a joint commentary on how trade policy can contribute to sustainability.
Together with Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Ireland and the Netherlands, Sweden submitted a proposal on the need for WTO reforms.
Sweden has also submitted concrete proposals on the following issues covered by the review:
- How to be strategic with trade defence
- Harnessing the opportunities of digital trade
- Sustainability
- Building a resilient Europe through a strong multilateral trading system, access to global markets and a strong single market
- Trade in services
In the first quarter of 2021, the European Commission will present a communication that builds on the submitted views and proposals.
