European Commission Directorate-General for Trade

Global trade

EU trade policy makes sure that Europe's trade adapts to a fast-changing world.

We also work with the World Trade Organization to keep the global economy open and based on fair rules.

• Statistics about EU world trade
• EU and the WTO

Opening foreign markets

The EU opens markets by making trade deals with partner countries or regions.

We also try to solve trade barriers that prevent European businesses from properly accessing a partner's market.

• Countries and regions
• Negotiations and agreements
• Accessing foreign markets

Trade disputes and defence

The European Union isn't naïve about free trade. We preserve our standards with our trade partners and make sure European businesses and workers thrive in the world economy.

• How the EU settles trade disputes
• Protecting EU exporters against unfair trade

Morals, values, ethics

The EU includes rules about the environment, labour rights, and sustainable development in its trade deals. Europe has also opened its markets to trade from the world's poorest countries, and helps developing countries take advantage of world trade.

• General policy-making
• EU trade policy for developing countries
• Sustainable development in trade