02/05/2014

Preferential trade arrangements (PTAs) are an essential instrument of EU trade policy. Trade brings economic benefits to both the EU and its partner countries and promotes sustainable development and poverty eradication in developing countries. This report evaluates whether PTAs are appropriately managed by both the Commission and Member States. It found that the Commission has not appropriately assessed all the economic effects of PTAs and that the completeness of revenue collection is not ensured because customs controls applied by Member States are weak and there are also deficiencies in the Commission’s supervision.