The objective of the EU and the U.S. is reaching a comprehensive trade agreement that will eliminate the current existing trade barriers without lowering the level of protection in Europe or America, and, consequently, increasing trade for all sectors between both parties. The geostrategic nature of this hypothetical agreement was discussed at the Conference, as it would strengthen the dialogue, cooperation and international position of the EU and the U.S. against emerging powers like China or Asia.
No details of the talks were discussed, nor was the agreement analysed by sector. The trouble spots, such as the reduction of tariffs or the regulatory environment, however, were identified. It was noted that while the tariff level is low in the U.S., at around 4%, there are some products that Spain exports that are subjected to high tariffs, such as processed agricultural products. In many cases, the real problem isn't the tariffs, but the different rules. Therefore, the conference reiterated that policy convergence is crucial.
On the Spanish side, Antonio Fernández Martos, from the Ministry of Economy, stressed that the priorities are to reduce the high tariff on some products, the agreements to facilitate public procurement, the insurance and service sector, the mobility of people and professionals, and, regarding agriculture, some American Marketing Orders on products such as olive oil or citrus, which hinder Spanish exports.
The participants constantly expressed their commitment and political support so the negotiation reaches a successful conclusion. Among the people participating in the conference were the chief negotiator of the EU, Ignacio Garcia Bercero, and the chief negotiator for the U.S., Dan Mullaney.
For FEPEX, it is necessary that the European Commission also support this agreement so that there is a real opening of new markets for the Spanish and the community's horticultural productions. The unilateral and partial negotiation of export protocols, between a Member State of the EU and a third country are not effective for a real opening of new markets.
The conference was organized by the Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness in collaboration with the Embassies of the United Kingdom, the United States, Ireland and the representation of the European Commission, in Madrid.