Kris Van Dijck: “Trade agreement with the US provides certainty for businesses and workers”

The European Union has reached an agreement on the implementation of its trade deal with the United States. The agreement, which was officially ratified last summer, introduces a general import tariff of 15% on European products. At the same time, a range of industrial and agricultural products from the US will benefit from zero tariffs.

According to Member of the European Parliament Kris Van Dijck, who served as chief negotiator for the ECR The N-VA is a member of the European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR), a conservative, eurorealistic parliamentary group in the European Parliament. The N-VA shares their realistic view of the European project and also advocates for the correct and intensive application of the subsidiarity principle. For example, we must not be afraid to ask ourselves if it would be better to leave certain European initiatives to the Member States. The N-VA also identifies with the emphases that the ECR places on the social-economic issues. Since the 2014 elections, the ECR has become the third largest parliamentary group in the European Parliament. ECR Group during the talks, the agreement above all provides much-needed legal certainty. “This is an important step towards greater stability and predictability in transatlantic trade relations. European businesses need clarity in order to invest, innovate and safeguard jobs.”

Strategic economic partners

The agreement comes at a time of economic uncertainty and growing geopolitical tensions. Together, the European Union and the United States account for nearly 30% of global trade in goods and services.

According to Kris Van Dijck, that cooperation remains vital for the European economy. “The European Union and the United States remain each other’s most important strategic and economic partners. In a context of increasing global competition and instability, it is in our interest to reduce friction, strengthen cooperation and avoid unnecessary escalation between allies.”

He also argues for a pragmatic approach to trade policy. “Trade policy should serve Europe’s economic strength and Competitiveness The extent to which companies in one country can compete with similar companies in another country. A law came into force in Belgium in 1996 to monitor competitiveness. This stipulates that Belgian salaries may not evolve faster than the average of those in the three neighbouring countries. The Central Economic Council (CEC) performs an annual measurement to see if the objectives have been obtained. competitiveness , rather than being driven by ideological reflexes. A constructive and balanced partnership with the United States is essential for our industry, our jobs and our long-term prosperity.”

Built-in safeguards

The legal text also includes safeguard mechanisms. The European Union will, for example, have the option to suspend the agreement if the United States fails to comply with its conditions.

In addition, an expiry date has been included: the agreement will lapse in 2029. This gives Europe the opportunity to renegotiate with a future US administration.

The agreement must still be approved by both the European Parliament and the Council before it can formally enter into force.