The aim of this InBrief series is to provide a synthesis of various chapters of the ten free trade agreements (FTAs) recently concluded by the European Union with developing countries, as well as other relevant trade agreements when appropriate. Each InBrief offers a detailed and schematic overview of a specific set of trade and trade-related provisions in these agreements.
Agriculture has always been a sensitive area in international trade liberalisation due to its importance for national food security and rural development and its dependence on nature. Within the World Trade Organization, a crucial step for integrating agriculture into the worldwide liberalisation process was made with the conclusion of the Uruguay Round. The free trade agreements between the European Union and its respective trading partners reinforce that process on a bilateral basis. These agreements may entail significant economic consequences, in particular for developing countries.
