Brussels, 06/11/2009 (Agence Europe) - The fifth report on measures which could potentially be restrictive to trade, which was published on Friday 6 November, lists 223 measures taken by third countries between October 2008 and October 2009. The worst has been averted, but prudence must remain the watchword, says the European Commission.
According to the services of Trade Commissioner Catherine Ashton, the scope of the measures taken so far has been fairly limited, compared to the fears prevailing and previous experience in times of recession. The adoption of new protectionist measures increased between December 2008 and July 2009 but has slowed since, they state. The measures taken, which range from bans on imports to increases in customs duties and policies creating incentives to buy national products, originated mainly in Russia (48), Argentina (35), Indonesia (27), United States (16) and China (13). Among the worst-hit sectors are agriculture and food (44 measures of the 223), steel and other metals (30), automotive (28), services (26) and textiles/clothing (22).
The report also notes that the use, in response to the crisis, of classic border measures such as bans on imports and increases of customs tariffs has been "contained", thanks to existing WTO disciplines. These measures still affect 5.2% of EU exports, the Commission notes. The report also stresses that restrictions on trade "behind the borders" multiplied in areas in which WTO rules are less strict, such as public procurement. Overall, nonetheless, "the worst has been avoided", thanks to the (Ed: at least partial) observation of commitments taken in the framework of the G20. However, prudence must remain the watchword because, the Commission explains, there is still a risk that certain measures will remain in place after the crisis, particularly in countries which are not members of the WTO. Additionally, the risk of a "domino effect" cannot be ruled out, it warns. The EU, for its part, "remains committed to its G20 pledge to refrain from protectionist measures", Ms Ashton concluded. (E.H./transl.fl)