The EU and Thailand have announced the resumption of negotiations for an ambitious, modern and balanced Free Trade Agreement (FTA), with a focus on sustainability. This announcement confirms the centrality of the Indo-Pacific region to the EU's trade agenda, paving the way for deeper trade ties with the second largest economy in Southeast Asia and further strengthening the EU's strategic partnership with this thriving region.
The FTA will aim to stimulate trade and investment by addressing a wide range of issues including: market access for goods, services, investment and public procurement; fast and efficient sanitary and phytosanitary procedures; protection of intellectual property rights, including geographical indications, and removing barriers to digital trade and trade in energy and raw materials, thereby supporting the digital and green transition. Sustainability will also be at the heart of this agreement, with strong and enforceable rules on trade and sustainable development (TSD). These rules will be consistent with the Communication from the Commission on the review of the EBA, of June 2022, supporting high levels of environmental protection and workers' rights, as well as the achievement of ambitious climate goals.
©European Union, 2023, Copyright, Photographer: Lukasz Kobus
