EU reports progress in free trade talks with New Zealand

The eight round allowed for thorough discussions covering all areas of the future agreement

The European Commission reports that the eighth round of negotiations for a European Union (EU)-New Zealand trade agreement was held from June 8 to 22 2020, by videoconference.

The round allowed for thorough discussions covering all areas of the future agreement, including notably market access for trade in goods and public procurement, as well as Geographical Indications. The EU Commissioner for Trade Phil Hogan and New Zealand Minister for Trade David Parker also discussed the progress achieved.

The Customs fees imposed by New Zealand continue to be the most sensitive issue for the EU in the text. The article on repair is close to being finalised.

New Zealand tabled a new proposal concerning the origin marking and suggested certain exemptions from the scope of the article. As regards market access, New Zealand has expressed disappointment with the EU’s second offer and suggested improvements.

The discussions on rules of origin covered all the outstanding elements and identified the required follow-up actions. Several key issues, such as cumulation, tolerances, duty drawback, and denial of preferential tariff treatment are still open.

Canada has separate trade agreements in force with the two parties. With the EU through the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement and with New-Zealand through the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.