Η κοινή εμπορική πολιτική της Ευρωπαϊκής Ένωσης: Η ΕΕ ως εμπορικός εταίρος

Abstract

The European Union (EU) is the largest single market, the biggest trading power and one of the most extroverted economies in the world. The ever-evolving EU Common Trade Policy, one of the leading examples of European integration, has made the greatest contribution to this achievement. Having exclusive competence in the field of trade, the EU determines the trade policy of its members, taking both autonomous and conventional policy measures, to promote open and fair international trade, regulated by common rules for all actors. Being a leading trade partner in the international trading system, the EU has concluded a great number of bilateral and regional agreements, as well as multilateral agreements, covering trade in goods and services, trade aspects of intellectual property and foreign direct investment. Prior to concluding trade agreements, the European Commission negotiates regarding their terms on behalf of the EU, in close cooperation with the Council and the European Parliament. The EU trade agreements differ in their content and targeting depending on their type. However, their common denominator is that, through them, the EU protects its trade interests, while at the same time it promotes European values and principles to the rest of the world. The EU's status as a key trade partner is also confirmed by its central position within the multilateral trading system, despite the occasional backlash from its attitude within the World Trade Organization. Balancing between bilateral and multilateral trade diplomacy, the EU seeks to maintain its leading role in international trade and increase its economic and political power through its trade relations, adapting to the new challenges that the world economy has to face.