Landmark CETA trade pact signed after seven years of talks
- 8 years ago
After seven years of negotiations, the European Union and Canada have signed the landmark Comprehensive and Economic Trade Agreement (CETA).
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau flew to the Belgian capital to sign the trade pact.
All EU member states reached a consensus on Friday (October 28). Each and every one of the 28 nations had to endorse CETA for it to be finalised.
It is hoped the deal, which removes 98 percent of tariffs, will bring a trade increase worth some 10.9 billion euros a year.
EU exporters are expected to save up to 500 million euros in duties annually.
Not entirely smooth sailing
Dramatic scenes took place outside the European Council in Brussels ahead of the signing pact.
A group of protesters managed to enter a restricted area to demonstrate against the deal.
Around 15 people were taken away by police.
Those opposing the agreement say they fear it will weaken existing standards and regulations on health, safety, environmental protection and workers’ rights.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau flew to the Belgian capital to sign the trade pact.
All EU member states reached a consensus on Friday (October 28). Each and every one of the 28 nations had to endorse CETA for it to be finalised.
It is hoped the deal, which removes 98 percent of tariffs, will bring a trade increase worth some 10.9 billion euros a year.
EU exporters are expected to save up to 500 million euros in duties annually.
Not entirely smooth sailing
Dramatic scenes took place outside the European Council in Brussels ahead of the signing pact.
A group of protesters managed to enter a restricted area to demonstrate against the deal.
Around 15 people were taken away by police.
Those opposing the agreement say they fear it will weaken existing standards and regulations on health, safety, environmental protection and workers’ rights.