Trade deals can allow international corporations to trample over the rights of governments in the Global South. That is the message from the Colombian government, which describes the effect of such deals as a “bloodbath” for their national sovereignty.
To mark our 20th anniversary, we gathered in October in Bandung, Indonesia, to reflect on our journey, the changes over these two decades and the challenges we face both politically and in our communications.
In the annex to the trade and sustainable development chapter of the EU-Mercosur agreement, several provisions entail fundamental changes in how the EUDR will work in practice.
For the UK, entering into a trade deal with the GCC would fly in the face of public opinion, offer few projected benefits, and send a worrying message about the priorities of the UK’s trade policy when it comes to human rights and climate.
Indonesia won a WTO case against the EU regarding discriminatory biofuel regulations. The WTO ruled that the EU unfairly treated Indonesian palm oil-based biofuel, which the EU had deemed unsustainable due to deforestation concerns. This ruling is expected to impact the EU’s anti-deforestation regulation (EUDR) and potentially speed up trade negotiations between Indonesia and the EU.
Malaysia and the EU have resumed negotiations for a free trade agreement (MEUFTA). This renewed effort aims to strengthen economic ties, boost Malaysian exports (especially in electronics, palm oil, and scientific equipment), and attract EU investment in sectors like green energy and advanced manufacturing.
The Gulf Cooperation Council is set to initiate long-awaited free trade negotiations with India this year, according to its Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi.
Import tax reductions for the people of Sri Lanka under a free trade agreement with Singapore has been halted, suspending the implementation of the deal.
Thailand and Saudi Arabia have made significant strides in strengthening their bilateral trade relations, with both countries exploring opportunities to further enhance economic cooperation.