This document provides an introduction to exporting to Europe. It discusses SIPPO, an organization that helps SMEs from developing countries gain access to European markets. It also discusses the CBI, an organization that promotes imports from developing countries to Europe. The document notes that Europe is a large market but also competitive, requiring high quality, innovation, and compliance with standards. It emphasizes that successful exporting to Europe requires skills and knowledge of diverse regional markets and regulations.
Barcelona Growth Agency aims to promote Barcelona as a city oriented towards economic and business growth. It brings together public and private representatives to coordinate policies and measures to develop the city over the next few years. The agency provides companies access to Barcelona's resources and strengths, such as its internationally recognized brand, economic open data, talent pool, and facilities like the MediaTic building and free zone for starting businesses without taxes. It offers a one-stop-shop for companies to easily access services, funding, and support settling in Barcelona. The goal is to position Barcelona as the best environment for companies' economic and business growth.
This document provides a summary of Attila Somogyi's professional experience and qualifications. It summarizes that he has 11 years of experience managing logistics and warehouse operations for a multinational German company. It also lists his educational background in business management and logistics certification. The summary highlights experience setting up sales networks, managing shared service centers, and designing distribution centers across Central and Eastern Europe.
This document provides an overview of Deutsche EuroShop AG, a German public company that invests solely in shopping centers. It discusses the company's portfolio of 21 shopping centers located primarily in Germany, with one center each in Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland. The document summarizes the company's targets of long-term net asset value enhancement and stable, attractive dividends through a "buy and hold" strategy. It also outlines key financial figures for the company and discusses trends in the retail sector such as the rise of e-commerce and changing customer expectations.
This document provides an overview of Deutsche EuroShop AG, a German public company that invests solely in shopping centers. Some key points:
- Deutsche EuroShop owns interests in 21 shopping centers located in Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland, with a total market value of approximately €5.1 billion.
- The company focuses on high-quality shopping centers in prime locations that are professionally managed. Occupancy rates across the portfolio are high at 99%.
- Key financial figures show stable revenue, earnings, and dividend growth in recent years. The company targets further expansion of its portfolio and maintaining an attractive dividend yield.
- Shopping centers remain attractive investments due to stable rent growth and occupancy
This document provides an overview of Deutsche EuroShop AG, a German public company that invests solely in shopping centers. Some key points:
- Deutsche EuroShop owns 21 shopping centers located primarily in Germany but also in Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland.
- The shopping centers have high occupancy rates and long-term lease agreements with tenants like H&M, Ceconomy, Deichmann, and Peek & Cloppenburg.
- Deutsche EuroShop focuses on stable long-term growth and increasing shareholder value through dividends. It aims to enhance its portfolio through acquisitions and expansions while maintaining a diversified tenant mix and maturities.
- Trends in retail
This letter from the executive board discusses the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on Deutsche EuroShop AG and its shopping centers. It states that footfall and tenant revenues have increased to around 77% and 85% of pre-pandemic levels respectively as stores have reopened. However, key financial figures like revenue and earnings are still down compared to the previous year. The letter also addresses rent support provided to tenants, refinancing of loans, and forecasts funds from operations to be between €1.70 to €1.90 per share for 2021 assuming no further major store closures.
V3 chester women´s network ukti bcn march 2014ellisandco
Check out our presentation about how to trade your goods in Spain, shown at the Chester Women's Network hosted by Ellis & Co Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers in Chester.
Barcelona Growth Agency aims to promote Barcelona as a city oriented towards economic and business growth. It brings together public and private representatives to coordinate policies and measures to develop the city over the next few years. The agency provides companies access to Barcelona's resources and strengths, such as its internationally recognized brand, economic open data, talent pool, and facilities like the MediaTic building and free zone for starting businesses without taxes. It offers a one-stop-shop for companies to easily access services, funding, and support settling in Barcelona. The goal is to position Barcelona as the best environment for companies' economic and business growth.
This document provides a summary of Attila Somogyi's professional experience and qualifications. It summarizes that he has 11 years of experience managing logistics and warehouse operations for a multinational German company. It also lists his educational background in business management and logistics certification. The summary highlights experience setting up sales networks, managing shared service centers, and designing distribution centers across Central and Eastern Europe.
This document provides an overview of Deutsche EuroShop AG, a German public company that invests solely in shopping centers. It discusses the company's portfolio of 21 shopping centers located primarily in Germany, with one center each in Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland. The document summarizes the company's targets of long-term net asset value enhancement and stable, attractive dividends through a "buy and hold" strategy. It also outlines key financial figures for the company and discusses trends in the retail sector such as the rise of e-commerce and changing customer expectations.
This document provides an overview of Deutsche EuroShop AG, a German public company that invests solely in shopping centers. Some key points:
- Deutsche EuroShop owns interests in 21 shopping centers located in Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland, with a total market value of approximately €5.1 billion.
- The company focuses on high-quality shopping centers in prime locations that are professionally managed. Occupancy rates across the portfolio are high at 99%.
- Key financial figures show stable revenue, earnings, and dividend growth in recent years. The company targets further expansion of its portfolio and maintaining an attractive dividend yield.
- Shopping centers remain attractive investments due to stable rent growth and occupancy
This document provides an overview of Deutsche EuroShop AG, a German public company that invests solely in shopping centers. Some key points:
- Deutsche EuroShop owns 21 shopping centers located primarily in Germany but also in Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland.
- The shopping centers have high occupancy rates and long-term lease agreements with tenants like H&M, Ceconomy, Deichmann, and Peek & Cloppenburg.
- Deutsche EuroShop focuses on stable long-term growth and increasing shareholder value through dividends. It aims to enhance its portfolio through acquisitions and expansions while maintaining a diversified tenant mix and maturities.
- Trends in retail
This letter from the executive board discusses the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on Deutsche EuroShop AG and its shopping centers. It states that footfall and tenant revenues have increased to around 77% and 85% of pre-pandemic levels respectively as stores have reopened. However, key financial figures like revenue and earnings are still down compared to the previous year. The letter also addresses rent support provided to tenants, refinancing of loans, and forecasts funds from operations to be between €1.70 to €1.90 per share for 2021 assuming no further major store closures.
V3 chester women´s network ukti bcn march 2014ellisandco
Check out our presentation about how to trade your goods in Spain, shown at the Chester Women's Network hosted by Ellis & Co Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers in Chester.
Trade Marketing Innovation in the Belgian Beer MarketTim Strik
The document provides background information on Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB Inbev) and describes the process for developing promotional activations in their trade marketing department. It defines key concepts in trade marketing such as points of sale, trade marketing plans, and the roles of different departments. The trade marketing department at AB Inbev develops promotional materials and activations to increase brand visibility and sales in stores, bars, and clubs in Belgium.
The document provides a summary of Deutsche EuroShop AG's nine-month report for 2010. Revenue increased 13% to €106.6 million due to the acquisition of the A10 Center in Wildau. EBIT grew 13% to €91.5 million and FFO improved 18% to €46.5 million. Deutsche EuroShop acquired additional shares in shopping centers in Dresden, Wuppertal, and Kassel. Based on the strong results, the company plans to increase its dividend to €1.10 per share.
The road to a new export market || Lotus 5: International BusinessAIESEC - Lotus project
Presentation by SIA Gatewaybaltic - "The road to a new export market" in conference Lotus 5: International Business, organized by AIESEC Riga. 24.04.2010 in SSE-Riga.
Dr Dev Kambhampati | Doing Business in Belgium - 2014 Country Commercial Guid...Dr Dev Kambhampati
This document provides an overview of doing business in Belgium. It discusses Belgium's political and economic environment, leading sectors for US export and investment, trade regulations and customs, investment climate, and business travel considerations. It also provides guidance on market entry strategies for US companies, including using agents or distributors, establishing offices, franchising, joint ventures and licensing. Key sectors highlighted for opportunities include defense, aerospace, chemicals, energy, environmental technologies, and medical devices.
The document provides a summary of Jorge Hernando Ribate's career history and qualifications. It details his work experience spanning from 2014 to 2002 in sales, marketing, project assistance, and logistics roles in Spain and the UK. It also lists his education including degrees in business/management, marketing, and digital marketing as well as English language proficiency certifications.
Deirdre McPartlin is a Senior Advisor in Enterprise Ireland’s Brexit Unit. Prior to that she worked for three years in Enterprise Ireland Engineering Department. Deirdre has over 15 years experience helping Irish companies understand, access and penetrate the German, Austrian and Swiss markets.
This document provides an overview of developing an export marketing plan. It discusses opportunities and challenges of exporting, how to determine export capacity and resources, important marketing tools, and different market entry strategies and pricing approaches. The key points are: exporting offers opportunities like increased sales and market diversification but also challenges such as costs, commitment level, and cultural differences. Companies must evaluate if they have the capacity, resources, and management skills to export successfully. Developing the right marketing materials and choosing an appropriate market entry strategy and pricing approach are also essential to an export plan.
This document provides an overview of investment trends in Spain's real estate markets in recent years. It discusses the economic recovery in Spain leading to increased investor interest. It summarizes investment volumes and yields in 2014 for various commercial property sectors - retail, office, hotels, and logistics. Retail investment focused on prime streets and shopping centers in Madrid. Office investment recovered due to economic growth. Hotels performed well due to increased tourism. Logistics picked up from improved private consumption and exports. Overall the recovery has transformed Spain from a no-go area to one of Europe's hottest markets.
The UK Market for Agri-Food and Horticultural Products: opportunities for Dut...DutchEmbassy
The Embassy of the Netherlands commissioned leading agri-food consultancy Promar International to review the UK agri-food and horticultural market. The purpose of the research was to identify opportunities in the UK agri-food market for Dutch food and drink Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SME’s) (1-5 year time horizon). The research was carried out between April and June 2013, consisting of:
-Desk-based analysis of a significant body of published information and data.
-Supplemented by telephone interviews with industry leaders.
This report documents key analysis, insights and conclusions.
This document provides an introduction to exporting food and agricultural products to the European market. It discusses how Europe represents one large market of 510 million consumers across 27 EU member states, despite cultural and linguistic differences between countries. It also notes trends like an aging population, financial stability, and openness to new experiences that make Europe receptive to new flavors, exotic foods, and foreign cultures. ExportDesk.eu is introduced as a consultancy that assists small and medium exporters in emerging economies to enter the European market by providing services like market analysis, export strategy development, and ensuring compliance with European entry requirements.
‘Brazil going Europe’ provides a comprehensive, low risk market entry solution, supporting Brazilian companies to successfully penetrate the European market.
This document provides an overview of the key elements and framework for developing an export marketing plan (EMP) for companies in emerging markets looking to export to other countries or regions. It discusses the planning process which involves research, SWOT analysis, confrontation analysis, strategy development, and action planning. The EMP framework involves five phases - perception and preparation, research, strategy, operational management. It also outlines a 2-day training program that would help companies apply this framework to develop their own customized EMP.
This document provides guidelines for a grant scheme to support increasing competitiveness and exports of Croatian small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The objective is to enhance SME productivity and increase export volumes. Priority issues for 2007 involve providing consultancy to help SMEs improve technological capacity and cooperation, develop quality standards, marketing and promotion within the EU. The total available funding is 2.7 million Euros from Phare funds and national co-financing. Eligible applicants are Croatian SMEs and their partnerships. Eligible activities include quality certification, staff training, marketing and cooperation projects. Application procedures and evaluation criteria are outlined.
Deutsche EuroShop | Conference Call Presentation - Half Year Financial Report...Deutsche EuroShop AG
- Most shopping centers in Germany and abroad reopened in May with safety restrictions like distancing and face masks. Footfall has recovered to around 77% of normal levels.
- Rent collection was 48% in Q2 and 78% in July due to negotiations for relief measures like rent deferrals. Around 6% of tenants have become insolvent since the pandemic began.
- Valuation of investment properties was negatively impacted by higher yields and expected lower rents/longer reletting periods due to the pandemic, leading to a negative revaluation result of €217.9 million.
- EBIT declined 20.1% to €78.5 million due to higher allowances for doubtful rents, while revenues
European Shopping Centre Development ReportDavid Bourla
The European Shopping Centre Development Report provides an overview of shopping centre stock levels and development activity across Europe. The report benchmarks European countries in terms of shopping centre space (sq.m), density (GLA/1,000 inhabitants) and the pipeline for the following 18 months. In addition to a comparison of European prime rental and yield levels, commentary also covers key shopping centres opened, schemes to be delivered, as well as an overview of the European retail investment market activity.
- The coronavirus pandemic significantly impacted the company's results in the first half of 2020. Revenue declined 2.2% due to rent relief provided to tenants.
- Center operating costs rose substantially by €17.9 million primarily due to higher write-downs of rent receivables totaling €19 million resulting from expected rent defaults and tenant insolvencies caused by the pandemic.
- Earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) fell 20.1% to €78.5 million mainly due to the increase in rent receivable write-downs and lower revenue amid the pandemic.
The CBI (Centre for the Promotion of Imports from developing countries) offers a three-year Export Coaching Programme to help small and medium enterprises in Central America expand exports to Europe. The programme provides training, coaching, participation in trade missions and fairs. It aims to help companies enter the European market by developing their export skills and knowledge. The programme will connect companies with European importers. To participate, companies must be in the agriculture or food sector, committed to the programme, and able to invest in market requirements. Most costs are covered but companies contribute €750 and cover some travel costs. The programme runs in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama with local partners.
Flyer are you interested in expanding your exports to europe englishRogier van Houts
The CBI Export Coaching Programme aims to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Central America expand their exports to Europe. The three-year programme will provide training, coaching, and opportunities to connect with European importers to agricultural exporters in Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama. Participants will receive one-on-one coaching, training courses, participation in trade missions and fairs. Most costs are covered, with participants expected to cover some travel costs. Interested SMEs that export products like coffee, cacao, fruits or seafood and meet other criteria can apply for the programme to diversify their markets.
The document summarizes the competitive advantages of Switzerland as a business location. It highlights Switzerland's strategic location in the heart of Europe with borders to three major markets. It also emphasizes Switzerland's political and economic stability, highly skilled workforce, exceptional infrastructure and quality of life. Additionally, the summary discusses Switzerland's strong integration into the European market through bilateral agreements and its network of over 20 free trade agreements.
The document proposes a new policy agenda to maximize the innovative contributions of Europe's creative industries. It recommends 10 policy actions to stimulate innovation and growth through cross-sectoral collaboration, build better business support and access to finance in regional ecosystems, and measure and raise awareness of the value of the cultural and creative industries. The recommendations are based on work by the European Creative Industries Alliance Policy Learning Platform to understand challenges facing creative SMEs and provide benchmark policy cases and suggestions.
Trade Marketing Innovation in the Belgian Beer MarketTim Strik
The document provides background information on Anheuser-Busch InBev (AB Inbev) and describes the process for developing promotional activations in their trade marketing department. It defines key concepts in trade marketing such as points of sale, trade marketing plans, and the roles of different departments. The trade marketing department at AB Inbev develops promotional materials and activations to increase brand visibility and sales in stores, bars, and clubs in Belgium.
The document provides a summary of Deutsche EuroShop AG's nine-month report for 2010. Revenue increased 13% to €106.6 million due to the acquisition of the A10 Center in Wildau. EBIT grew 13% to €91.5 million and FFO improved 18% to €46.5 million. Deutsche EuroShop acquired additional shares in shopping centers in Dresden, Wuppertal, and Kassel. Based on the strong results, the company plans to increase its dividend to €1.10 per share.
The road to a new export market || Lotus 5: International BusinessAIESEC - Lotus project
Presentation by SIA Gatewaybaltic - "The road to a new export market" in conference Lotus 5: International Business, organized by AIESEC Riga. 24.04.2010 in SSE-Riga.
Dr Dev Kambhampati | Doing Business in Belgium - 2014 Country Commercial Guid...Dr Dev Kambhampati
This document provides an overview of doing business in Belgium. It discusses Belgium's political and economic environment, leading sectors for US export and investment, trade regulations and customs, investment climate, and business travel considerations. It also provides guidance on market entry strategies for US companies, including using agents or distributors, establishing offices, franchising, joint ventures and licensing. Key sectors highlighted for opportunities include defense, aerospace, chemicals, energy, environmental technologies, and medical devices.
The document provides a summary of Jorge Hernando Ribate's career history and qualifications. It details his work experience spanning from 2014 to 2002 in sales, marketing, project assistance, and logistics roles in Spain and the UK. It also lists his education including degrees in business/management, marketing, and digital marketing as well as English language proficiency certifications.
Deirdre McPartlin is a Senior Advisor in Enterprise Ireland’s Brexit Unit. Prior to that she worked for three years in Enterprise Ireland Engineering Department. Deirdre has over 15 years experience helping Irish companies understand, access and penetrate the German, Austrian and Swiss markets.
This document provides an overview of developing an export marketing plan. It discusses opportunities and challenges of exporting, how to determine export capacity and resources, important marketing tools, and different market entry strategies and pricing approaches. The key points are: exporting offers opportunities like increased sales and market diversification but also challenges such as costs, commitment level, and cultural differences. Companies must evaluate if they have the capacity, resources, and management skills to export successfully. Developing the right marketing materials and choosing an appropriate market entry strategy and pricing approach are also essential to an export plan.
This document provides an overview of investment trends in Spain's real estate markets in recent years. It discusses the economic recovery in Spain leading to increased investor interest. It summarizes investment volumes and yields in 2014 for various commercial property sectors - retail, office, hotels, and logistics. Retail investment focused on prime streets and shopping centers in Madrid. Office investment recovered due to economic growth. Hotels performed well due to increased tourism. Logistics picked up from improved private consumption and exports. Overall the recovery has transformed Spain from a no-go area to one of Europe's hottest markets.
The UK Market for Agri-Food and Horticultural Products: opportunities for Dut...DutchEmbassy
The Embassy of the Netherlands commissioned leading agri-food consultancy Promar International to review the UK agri-food and horticultural market. The purpose of the research was to identify opportunities in the UK agri-food market for Dutch food and drink Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SME’s) (1-5 year time horizon). The research was carried out between April and June 2013, consisting of:
-Desk-based analysis of a significant body of published information and data.
-Supplemented by telephone interviews with industry leaders.
This report documents key analysis, insights and conclusions.
This document provides an introduction to exporting food and agricultural products to the European market. It discusses how Europe represents one large market of 510 million consumers across 27 EU member states, despite cultural and linguistic differences between countries. It also notes trends like an aging population, financial stability, and openness to new experiences that make Europe receptive to new flavors, exotic foods, and foreign cultures. ExportDesk.eu is introduced as a consultancy that assists small and medium exporters in emerging economies to enter the European market by providing services like market analysis, export strategy development, and ensuring compliance with European entry requirements.
‘Brazil going Europe’ provides a comprehensive, low risk market entry solution, supporting Brazilian companies to successfully penetrate the European market.
This document provides an overview of the key elements and framework for developing an export marketing plan (EMP) for companies in emerging markets looking to export to other countries or regions. It discusses the planning process which involves research, SWOT analysis, confrontation analysis, strategy development, and action planning. The EMP framework involves five phases - perception and preparation, research, strategy, operational management. It also outlines a 2-day training program that would help companies apply this framework to develop their own customized EMP.
This document provides guidelines for a grant scheme to support increasing competitiveness and exports of Croatian small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The objective is to enhance SME productivity and increase export volumes. Priority issues for 2007 involve providing consultancy to help SMEs improve technological capacity and cooperation, develop quality standards, marketing and promotion within the EU. The total available funding is 2.7 million Euros from Phare funds and national co-financing. Eligible applicants are Croatian SMEs and their partnerships. Eligible activities include quality certification, staff training, marketing and cooperation projects. Application procedures and evaluation criteria are outlined.
Deutsche EuroShop | Conference Call Presentation - Half Year Financial Report...Deutsche EuroShop AG
- Most shopping centers in Germany and abroad reopened in May with safety restrictions like distancing and face masks. Footfall has recovered to around 77% of normal levels.
- Rent collection was 48% in Q2 and 78% in July due to negotiations for relief measures like rent deferrals. Around 6% of tenants have become insolvent since the pandemic began.
- Valuation of investment properties was negatively impacted by higher yields and expected lower rents/longer reletting periods due to the pandemic, leading to a negative revaluation result of €217.9 million.
- EBIT declined 20.1% to €78.5 million due to higher allowances for doubtful rents, while revenues
European Shopping Centre Development ReportDavid Bourla
The European Shopping Centre Development Report provides an overview of shopping centre stock levels and development activity across Europe. The report benchmarks European countries in terms of shopping centre space (sq.m), density (GLA/1,000 inhabitants) and the pipeline for the following 18 months. In addition to a comparison of European prime rental and yield levels, commentary also covers key shopping centres opened, schemes to be delivered, as well as an overview of the European retail investment market activity.
- The coronavirus pandemic significantly impacted the company's results in the first half of 2020. Revenue declined 2.2% due to rent relief provided to tenants.
- Center operating costs rose substantially by €17.9 million primarily due to higher write-downs of rent receivables totaling €19 million resulting from expected rent defaults and tenant insolvencies caused by the pandemic.
- Earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) fell 20.1% to €78.5 million mainly due to the increase in rent receivable write-downs and lower revenue amid the pandemic.
The CBI (Centre for the Promotion of Imports from developing countries) offers a three-year Export Coaching Programme to help small and medium enterprises in Central America expand exports to Europe. The programme provides training, coaching, participation in trade missions and fairs. It aims to help companies enter the European market by developing their export skills and knowledge. The programme will connect companies with European importers. To participate, companies must be in the agriculture or food sector, committed to the programme, and able to invest in market requirements. Most costs are covered but companies contribute €750 and cover some travel costs. The programme runs in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama with local partners.
Flyer are you interested in expanding your exports to europe englishRogier van Houts
The CBI Export Coaching Programme aims to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Central America expand their exports to Europe. The three-year programme will provide training, coaching, and opportunities to connect with European importers to agricultural exporters in Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama. Participants will receive one-on-one coaching, training courses, participation in trade missions and fairs. Most costs are covered, with participants expected to cover some travel costs. Interested SMEs that export products like coffee, cacao, fruits or seafood and meet other criteria can apply for the programme to diversify their markets.
The document summarizes the competitive advantages of Switzerland as a business location. It highlights Switzerland's strategic location in the heart of Europe with borders to three major markets. It also emphasizes Switzerland's political and economic stability, highly skilled workforce, exceptional infrastructure and quality of life. Additionally, the summary discusses Switzerland's strong integration into the European market through bilateral agreements and its network of over 20 free trade agreements.
The document proposes a new policy agenda to maximize the innovative contributions of Europe's creative industries. It recommends 10 policy actions to stimulate innovation and growth through cross-sectoral collaboration, build better business support and access to finance in regional ecosystems, and measure and raise awareness of the value of the cultural and creative industries. The recommendations are based on work by the European Creative Industries Alliance Policy Learning Platform to understand challenges facing creative SMEs and provide benchmark policy cases and suggestions.
ECBN - A Manifesto for InternationalisationCallum Lee
The document outlines 5 principles for effective internationalization of cultural and creative industries in Europe according to the European Creative Business Network (ECBN). The principles are: 1) Internationalization must be led by individual businesses, 2) Face-to-face interaction is important, 3) Internationalization can benefit businesses of any size or sector, 4) Internationalization needs European support through programs and regulations, and 5) Better data and evidence is needed to understand effective internationalization strategies. ECBN and the European Commission should adopt these principles to most effectively support growth of cultural and creative industries internationally.
This document provides an overview of a class on international business and trade. The class rules require students to keep their microphones muted but cameras on, and to use the chat box to greet any visitors. The objective is for students to better understand international business dimensions and opportunities in global markets, with a focus on exports and examples from local and foreign experiences. A video on the role of trade in economic growth and poverty reduction is assigned for students to watch. The document then discusses how open trade policies can promote economic growth for all.
What is Nigeria Doing Right by Wilma Aguele Cordinator Marketing Committee CASONCASON
Nigerian exporters are already doing well, as exports to the EU in 2012 were over 32 million euros, while imports from the EU were around 11 million euros. There are several resources available to support Nigerian exporters, including databases providing advice on EU and UK import regulations, commodity classification codes, and the Europa Export Helpdesk which provides free information to facilitate exports to the EU. The UNDP Private Sector Development Programme also aims to expand agriculture, services, and support for SMEs and entrepreneurs in Nigeria. Further support could be provided through greater collaboration among organizations, increased training, and the formation of an exporters forum and mentoring programs.
First-class export advice, world-class business growth from UKTIJonny Shaw
UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) works with UK-based businesses of all sizes, providing advice, expertise and support to ensure their success within international markets.
Find out how UKTI can support your business.
This report showcases the results the Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF) achieved in 2017 toward fulfilling the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by helping the world’s poorest countries harness the power of trade to raise incomes and reduce poverty.
Value of Advertising, an independent study by Deloitte, has identified a multitude of benefits generated by advertising, to the overall economy, jobs and to civil society.
Economic contribution of advertising EUAndrei Barbu
Advertising contributes significantly to GDP and employment in Europe according to a study by Deloitte. Some of the key findings include:
1) For every 1 Euro spent on advertising in the EU in 2014, an estimated 7 Euros was generated for the wider European economy, contributing over 600 billion Euros to GDP.
2) Advertising supports almost 6 million jobs in the EU, providing employment both directly in the advertising industry and indirectly in other sectors.
3) Advertising plays an important role in funding media services in Europe and ensuring citizens can access news and entertainment at low or no cost. Without advertising, many media services would be more expensive or not exist.
This document provides an overview of the investment climate and economic performance in Kosovo. Some key points:
1. Kosovo relies heavily on consumption and imports, which has led to large trade and current account deficits. Exports and foreign direct investment remain relatively low.
2. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted Kosovo's economy through reductions in exports, imports, and the services sector. However, remittances and FDI increased in 2020.
3. Kosovo's economy is ranked moderately free with low scores in areas like property rights, judicial effectiveness, and corruption, which hinders foreign investment.
4. Kosovo performs well in some World Bank ease of doing business indicators but scores poorly in others like getting electricity and
This document provides information about a training course for women entrepreneurs within the Euro-FEM project funded by the European Union. The training will take place online over 4 hours and cover attracting funding sources in the EU, including structural funds, financial instruments for startups, and the process for participating in European projects. The training will be led by Irene Otero Rodriguez, an experienced consultant specialized in business creation and internationalization.
The EU|BICs provided support to nearly 80,000 clients in 2014, helping create over 4,000 new startups with an 87% survival rate. They fostered the creation of over 19,500 jobs while only costing €9,298 per job on average. EU|BICs delivered a variety of services including incubation, training, funding facilitation and networking events to support innovation and entrepreneurship.
The director discusses the importance of emerging industries in Europe's industrial renaissance. She notes that the conference title, timing, and scope are all pertinent. Emerging industries are new engines for growth that arise from cross-sectoral innovation and collaboration. The EU is taking several actions to support emerging industries, including identifying clusters where new specializations are transforming industries, providing funding through Horizon 2020 to support cross-border collaboration between SMEs, and establishing flexible support programs tailored for entrepreneurs and SMEs in emerging fields. If Europe hopes to facilitate the emergence of new industries and the transformation of existing ones, policies must better support cross-sectoral innovation and collaboration.
The International Trade Centre (ITC) assists small and medium enterprises in developing countries to increase their competitiveness in global markets. The document describes an ITC project working with the avocado sector in Kenya. The project aims to update an avocado Commodity Business Plan to increase Kenyan avocado exports over 3 years with a budget of $1 million USD. Key outputs include enhancing export capacities of 10 small and medium enterprises and farmer groups through training, and improving support services of trade organizations through additional training and advisory solutions.
This document discusses opportunities for business development in Serbia. It notes that Serbia is a growing country with a rapidly expanding population and economy. Italian products are well received there and it represents an important market. Investing in Serbia also allows access to larger markets in Eastern Europe. The document provides economic data on Serbia and outlines the country's competitive tax system and incentives for foreign investment. It details benefits of operating in Serbia's free trade zones and notes Serbia's young, skilled workforce with strong foreign language abilities. In conclusion, the document suggests that now is a good time to evaluate expanding operations to Serbia due to investment safety, favorable business conditions, and potential for short-term financial advantages.
Horizon 2020 SME Instrument: financing your innovative business with EU fundsSviatoslav Sviatnenko
The document provides an overview of financing innovative businesses through EU funds, specifically the Horizon 2020 program. It discusses the Horizon 2020 SME Instrument, which provides grants of €0.5-2.5 million for demonstration and commercialization projects. The success rate is around 6%. The summary also highlights a Ukrainian company that received €1.2 million in funding through the SME Instrument for their cloud-based photovoltaic workflow project. The funding will help the company enter the European market and contribute to the competitiveness of the European microelectronics industry.
EuroMed Invest presentation by Mr. Fearghus Roche in the Mediterranean Ports ...ASCAME
This document outlines the Euromed Invest project which aims to boost business and investment in the Mediterranean region. It has overall objectives of positioning the Mediterranean in key global sectors to create jobs and value, and supporting small and medium enterprises.
The project will implement actions like business matchmaking, networking events, and capacity building for businesses and organizations. These actions will be carried out through roadshows, conferences, and training with the goals of increasing partnerships, foreign direct investment, and sub-national development.
The project is supported by 79 partners across Europe and southern Mediterranean countries and will mobilize over 1,000 business projects and facilitate 4,500 business meetings over three years with an estimated budget of 5 million Euros.
The document outlines India's foreign trade policy for 2009-2014. It acknowledges the global economic slowdown and declining demand impacting India's exports. The policy aims to arrest the decline in exports and achieve 15% annual export growth, reaching $200 billion by 2011. Long term, it aims to double India's share of global trade by 2020. Key strategies include fiscal incentives, market access agreements, infrastructure development, and support for employment-intensive and technology-upgrading sectors.
At Techbox Square, in Singapore, we're not just creative web designers and developers, we're the driving force behind your brand identity. Contact us today.
Building Your Employer Brand with Social MediaLuanWise
Presented at The Global HR Summit, 6th June 2024
In this keynote, Luan Wise will provide invaluable insights to elevate your employer brand on social media platforms including LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok. You'll learn how compelling content can authentically showcase your company culture, values, and employee experiences to support your talent acquisition and retention objectives. Additionally, you'll understand the power of employee advocacy to amplify reach and engagement – helping to position your organization as an employer of choice in today's competitive talent landscape.
Digital Marketing with a Focus on Sustainabilitysssourabhsharma
Digital Marketing best practices including influencer marketing, content creators, and omnichannel marketing for Sustainable Brands at the Sustainable Cosmetics Summit 2024 in New York
The 10 Most Influential Leaders Guiding Corporate Evolution, 2024.pdfthesiliconleaders
In the recent edition, The 10 Most Influential Leaders Guiding Corporate Evolution, 2024, The Silicon Leaders magazine gladly features Dejan Štancer, President of the Global Chamber of Business Leaders (GCBL), along with other leaders.
Industrial Tech SW: Category Renewal and CreationChristian Dahlen
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2. About us.
SIPPO, the Swiss Import Promotion Programme, is a mandate The CBI is the Centre for the Promotion of Imports from develop-
of the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs, SECO, within the ing countries and an agency of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of
framework of its economic development cooperation. It is carried the Netherlands. Its mission is to contribute to sustainable eco-
out by Osec, the official Swiss foreign trade promotion agency. nomic development in developing countries through the expansion
of exports from these countries. Over the last 40 years, the CBI
The programme helps SMEs in developing and transition countries has opened the doors of European trade to thousands of export-
to gain access to the Swiss and European markets by providing ers in developing countries.
information, training courses and other matchmaking services.
SIPPO also assists importers from Switzerland and the European The CBI offers an integrated, needs-driven approach to both
Union with finding suitable partners and high-quality products from exporters as well as their business support organisations (BSOs)
selected developing and transition countries. and governmental authorities. Its activities focus on the link be-
tween producing exporters and European buyers and contribute
The programme has five main goals: to strengthening the competitive position of exporters sustainably,
assisting them in trading on the European markets.
• To inform the Swiss and European import economy about new
market sources
• To strengthen trade institutions and business sector associations
in the trade promotion process
• To increase the competitiveness of SMEs in selected
partner countries
• To develop the manufacturing and exporting skills of SMEs in
selected partner countries
• To establish qualified trade contacts between SMEs from
emerging markets and markets in transition and the Swiss and
European import economy
2 l Exporting to Europe
3. Exporting to Europe – an introduction.
Disclaimer
Although the content of its market information tools has been
compiled with the greatest care, CBI (the Centre for the Promotion
of Imports from developing countries) and SIPPO (Swiss Import
Promotion Programme) cannot guarantee that the information
provided is accurate and/or exhaustive, and it cannot be held liable
for claims pertaining to the use of the information.
In regard to the market publications, neither CBI and SIPPO nor
the authors of the publications accept responsibility for the use
which might be made of the information. Furthermore, the infor-
mation shall not be construed as legal advice. Original documents
should, therefore, always be consulted where appropriate. The
information does not release the reader from the responsibility of
complying with any relevant legislation, regulations, jurisdiction or
changes/updates of the same.
In the case of the Internet tools, CBI and SIPPO aim to minimi-
se the disruption caused by technical errors. However, CBI and
SIPPO cannot guarantee that its service will not be interrupted or
otherwise affected by technical problems. CBI and SIPPO accept
no responsibility with regard to problems incurred as a result of
using this site or any linked external sites.
The information provided is aimed at assisting the CBI and SIPPO
target group, i.e. exporters and business support organisations
(BSOs) in developing countries. It may, therefore, not be used for
re-sale, the provision of consultancy services, redistribution or the
building of databases, on a commercial basis. For the utilization
of the CBI market information tools by the CBI and SIPPO target
group on a non-commercial basis, the condition applies that CBI
and SIPPO are referred to as the source of the information.
All other use is prohibited, unless explicitly approved in writing by
CBI and SIPPO. See also Disclaimer CBI market information tools:
http://www.cbi.eu/disclaimer
Updated for SIPPO and CBI by:
E&M ExportManagement BV, Reuver, the Netherlands
Tove Antonissen, Monique Harmsen, Fred Janssen
2010
Photo courtesy: EU Audiovisual Service, Fotalia, Getty Images, NL Agency
(page 14 and 30 )
Design: Rüttiger Design, Germany
Exporting to Europe l 3
4. Welcome.
History has shown that integration into the world economy is The European market is vast: 27 EU (European Union) member
correlated with economic growth and poverty reduction. Countries countries with over 500 million consumers and four EFTA
that have opened up to trade have grown much faster than those (European Free Trade Agreement) member countries including
which have not. Today, trade constitutes an essential source of Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway with an additional
revenues for many developing countries. However, still too often, 12 million inhabitants offer an attractive but also highly competitive
national and internal barriers prevent them from fully benefiting market. European importers and consumers demand high levels
from the global trading system. of product quality, product innovation and service delivery.
The State Secretariat for Economic Affairs SECO has recognized Successful exporting to European countries is a challenge and
the key role of trade for developing countries. Among the instru- requires profound skills and know-how. Europe consists of many
ments it deploys within its economic and development cooperation different regional markets with their own identities and characteris-
with poorer countries, trade-related cooperation including social tics. Likewise, suppliers and exporters are asked to come up with
and environmental aspects has a major importance, with the aim different pricing and marketing strategies in order to successfully
to boost trade as a trigger for growth and sustainable develop- enter the diverse European market. Another aspect of long-term
ment. SECO’s cooperation endeavours to strengthen trade-related market penetration includes the access to updated information of
capacities at the three interrelated levels of policy making, institu- European and EFTA legislation and regulations.
tional building and company development. SECO’s interventions
focus on areas in which Switzerland has specific know-how and International standards, labels, marking and certificates enforced
a comparative advantage: (1) enabling framework conditions for either by legislation or demanded by the market itself shall guar-
trade, (2) enhancing the international competitiveness of compa- antee that concerns of consumers and workers’ health and safety
nies and (3) improving their access to export markets. as well as the environment are being met. CE marking for product
safety, Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCAP) system
During the process of improving market access for enterprises for food producing companies to comply with strict hygiene stan-
from developing countries, SECO works on two levels. First of all, dards, International Food Safety (IFS) or GobalGAP for agricul-
on a general policy level, significant tariff reductions are granted tural products have become a prerequisite to introduce goods onto
to these countries on all goods which they produce and export the European market. Other market requirements based on social
to Switzerland. These concessions imply zero tariffs for all goods and economical concerns are not yet legally binding but result in
imported from least developed countries (LDCs). Secondly, on a internationally accepted standards, labels and certificates such
more specific level, SECO runs programmes to promote imports as Good Agricultural Practice (GAP), various ecolabels and social
to Switzerland and the rest of Europe. In this endeavour, SECO codes of conduct such as the UN Global Compact’s ten principles
has set up the Swiss Import Promotion Programme SIPPO which or the newly designed ISO 26000 standard. ISO 26000 will distil a
works directly with enterprises, providing them with counseling globally relevant understanding of what social responsibility is and
and market information services and directly fostering their access what organisations need to do to operate in a socially responsible
to markets via trade fairs. way.
The present export manual is an excellent example of SIPPO’s This brochure was produced in cooperation between Osec and
interventions aimed at fostering access to the European market CBI. It shall be your door opener to the powerful European market,
(including EU and EFTA). It provides the reader with tangible and inform you about the potential, requirements and expectations of
lively advice which should lead to market penetration in Europe. European importers and consumers and even inspire you to de-
I wish you a pleasant reading! velop your own export marketing strategy. Be well prepared, and
you are half way there!
Hans-Peter Egler
Head of Trade Promotion, Economic Cooperation and Development Rita Stupf
(SECO) Member of the Executive Management Board, Osec
4 l Exporting to Europe
5. Table of contents.
About us.
The Swiss Import Promotion Programme and CBI ............................................................. 2
Exporting to Europe.
An introduction .................................................................................................................... 3
Welcome. ................................................................................................................. 4
Table of contents. . ........................................................................................... 5
How to use this manual. ............................................................................ 6
Introduction. . ......................................................................................................... 7
Module 1.
Europe, A Social Overview ................................................................................................. 8
Module 2.
Europe, A Technological Overview ................................................................................... 14
Module 3.
Europe, An Economic Overview ....................................................................................... 22
Module 4.
Europe, An Environmental Overview ................................................................................ 30
Module 5.
Europe, A Political Overview ..............................................................................................34
Module 6.
Europe, Developments in Business-to-Business Markets ................................................ 46
Module 7.
Europe, Developments in Consumer Markets .................................................................. 54
Module 8.
Europe, Cultural Aspects .................................................................................................. 62
Exporting to Europe l 5
6. Introduction.
For over half a century, the European Union (EU) has brought
political stability and economic prosperity to its citizens. It has
created a frontier-free single market and a single currency, the
euro. It has reunited a fractured continent. Europe as a whole is
a major economic and commercial power and the world’s largest
donor of development aid to poorer countries. EU membership
has grown from six to 27 nations; combined with the four EFTA
countries (Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein) this
brings the total population of Europe to over half a billion.
If you are prepared and willing to explore new markets, then this
should create opportunities for you as an exporter: the EU alone
is the major exporter in the world and the second largest importer.
The European Union is also an important trading partner for less
developed countries, most of whose exports enter the EU duty-
free or at reduced rates of duty. This preferential access to the
EU market is aimed at boosting the economic growth of poorer
countries around the world.
This publication is an update of the CBI manual “Exporting to the
EU – (2006)”. This manual is the first joint publication about the
European Union and EFTA co-financed by CBI and SIPPO. It
is meant to give you a quick overview of the European (EU and
EFTA) region, providing you with the basic knowledge you need
to decide whether or not it would be interesting for you to start
exploring export possibilities to Europe for your specific sector.
This manual is just one in a series published by CBI covering
certain aspects of exporting to Europe. More product specific
information can be found in CBI market surveys. Other issues
such as carrying out market research, selecting your target
market, market entry strategy, website promotion, trade shows
and corporate image are covered in other CBI export manuals.
You can find the titles on the CBI website:
www.cbi.eu/marketinfo.
6 l Exporting to Europe
7. How to use this manual.
The manual consist of 8 modules that can be read separately The manual has been structured to highlight the most important
according to your specific interests. To get the most out of this topics for familiarising yourself with Europe as a potential export
manual, however, you may find it beneficial to read in the order market. You can use this manual and its online CBI and SIPPO
given below for a more complete introduction. tools, additions and links (www.cbi.eu and www.sippo.ch) to
determine whether or not Europe might be an interesting market
Module 1 Europe, A Social Overview to investigate further for you and your products. In addition to
Module 2 Europe, A Technological Overview the information provided here, you will need to do more in-depth
Module 3 Europe, An Economic Overview research. To help you with this, each module provides you with
Module 4 Europe, An Environmental Overview useful sources and references to various internet sites.
Module 5 Europe, A Political Overview
Module 6 Europe, Developments in
Business-to-Business Markets
Module 7 Europe, Developments in
Consumer Markets
Module 8 Europe, Cultural Aspects
At the beginning of each module you will find a ‘route map’ which
will tell you exactly where you are in the manual:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
The information provided has been analysed specifically for the
following main sectors:
• Agricultural
• Consumer
• Industrial
• Services
or indicating a certain fixed section that will help you to go further
in your research:
• What does this mean for you as an exporter?
• Practical next steps
• Read more
Exporting to Europe l 7
9. Europe, A Social Overview.
Why read this module?
If you read this module, you will acquire an overview concerning the most
important social issues and developments in Europe. This could be very
relevant to you in your capacity as an exporter or BSO (business support
organisation) from a developing country. Together with the other modules
on Technology, Economy, Environment and Politics, you will have access
to the basic components required for a STEEP analysis. This analysis
can help you determine whether Europe might possibly be an interesting
market for you to explore further.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Module 1 Exporting to Europe l 9
10. Introduction. Demographic indicators.
This module covers several demographic indicators and changing Together, the EU and EFTA account for a population of more than
life styles in Europe. Where appropriate, the differences between 510 million potential customers. The population is expected to
the EU and EFTA countries are highlighted. This module gives have risen by 5% by the year 2030 as a result of two main factors:
you basic information on the relevant social developments that are migration and longer life expectancy. These two developments will
taking place in Europe. In order to help you discover more about have an influence on European demography.
this subject, we have provided you with several links to both CBI /
SIPPO sources and external sources.
Figure 1.1: Total population and number of
foreign citizens (%) in European countries
Source: Eurostat 2010
10 l Exporting to Europe Module 1
11. The number of foreign citizens living in European countries is Table 1.1: Number of foreign citizens in European countries
increasing and this is the main driver behind the growing popula-
tion. In 2007, the EU included almost 29 million foreign citizens, 2005 2007 2009
whereas this figure had risen to almost 32 million in 2009. EU (27 countries) : 28913543s 31860300s
Belgium 870862 932161 :
Source: http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/tgm/table.do?tab=table&i
nit=1&language=en&pcode=tps00157&plugin=1 Bulgaria : 25500s 23838
Czech Republic 193480 296236 407541
The population in the EFTA countries Switzerland, Norway, Ice-
Denmark 267604 278096 320033
land and Liechtenstein is expected to rise from 12.6 million people
in 2008 to 14.1 million people in 2030. Germany 7287980 7255949 7185921
Estonia : 236400s 214437
Source: http://www.efta.int/statistics/statistical-data.aspx
Ireland 255400 452306 504068
Greece : 887600s 929530
The population profile is expected to age in basically all of the Spain 3371394 4606474 5650968
European regions. Between 1960 and 2008, the proportion of older
France 3623063 3650100s 3737549
people (65 years and older) in the EU-27 population has risen from
10 % to 17 %. According to Eurostat‘s projections, this trend will Italy 2402157 2938922 3891295
continue. The proportion of people aged 65 and older in the total Cyprus 98100 118100 128200
population is expected to rise in the period leading up to 2060. In
Latvia 487212 432951 404013
the EU-27 it is expected to go up from 17 % in 2008 to 30 % in
2060, reflecting an increase in the number of elderly from 84.6 Lithuania 32327 39687 41505
million in 2008 to 151.5 million in 2060. The largest percentages Luxembourg 183600 198213 214848
of elderly people in 2060 are expected to be found in Poland (36.2 %),
Hungary 143774 167873 186365
Slovakia (36.1 %), Romania (35.0 %), Lithuania (34.7 %), Latvia
(34.4 %) and Bulgaria (34.2 %), and the lowest in Luxembourg Malta 11999 13877 18128
(23.6 %), the United Kingdom (24.7 %) and Denmark (25.0 %). Netherlands 699351 681932 637136
Austria 774401 804779 864397
Poland 42763 54883 35933
Portugal : 434887 443102
Romania 25929 26069 31354
Slovenia 44285 53555 70554
Slovakia 22251 32130 52545
Finland 108346 121739 142288
Sweden 481141 491996 547664
United Kingdom 3066055 3659900s :
Norway 213303 238305 302908
Switzerland 1524663 1554527 1669715
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Module 1 Exporting to Europe l 11
12. Changing life styles.
However, it is not only the population profile that is changing. The The population of Europe is not very evenly distributed: some
number of households, women working and education levels is countries are more densely populated than others, and all of
also changing. To start with the education level, the European-wide countries contain both rural and urban areas. This is partly deter-
trend is that the level of education is becoming higher. More and mined by geographical factors: in the far north it is very cold and
more people have a university degree or have graduated from dark in the winter, and access to the sea for transport is at a great
other higher education institutes. Women are well-represented in distance; likewise, many cities have grown in places where pos-
higher education, with more women enrolling than men. In addition, sibilities for commerce are geographically favourable. The map
women are increasingly employed, thus making them more and below gives an overview of the density of population in Europe.
more financially independent. The past fifty years have witnessed great growth in the cities
(78% versus a population growth of 33%). In general, the people
The average household size in the EU has been decreasing during who live in cities are exposed to new products and trends,
the past decade. In 2008, it was 2.4 people per household. Within whereas those who live in rural areas are less exposed to these
the EU, the differences in the size of households is not very great. products.
In Germany, Finland, Denmark and the Netherlands households
are relatively small with an average size of 2.2 people or fewer. In http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/tgm/mapToolClosed.do?tab=map
contrast, households are larger in Malta, Cyprus, Romania and &init=1&plugin=1&language=en&pcode=tgs00024&toolbox=types
Slovakia with an average size of 2.9 people or more.
Figure 1.2: Population density
(people per square metre)
Source: Detail INTG
2.6 - 66.6
66.6 -104.8
104.8 - 184.5
184.5 - 379.5
379.5 - 9398.4
Data not available
12 l Exporting to Europe Module 1
13. Practical next steps.
The demographic developments described above can be
interpreted as trends for various sectors. See the module on
consumer developments for more information.
Read more
Publication:
“The Social Situation in The European Union 2009”, the
European Commission - http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/
cache/ITY_OFFPUB/KE-AG-10-001/EN/KE-AG-10-001-
EN.PDF
What does this mean for you as an Eurostat information on:
exporter?
• Population
• Ageing population: the opportunities for selling products that http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/tgm/mapToolClosed.do;js
offer comfort, that have an ergonomic design and that can essionid=9ea7974b30eae53c0125a43b491589d9802f038f
be used during leisure time will increase. The same is true of 98b6.e34SbxiOchiKc40LbNmLahiKb3mOe0?tab=map&init
products designed to meet the demands of the elderly. The =1&plugin=1&language=en&pcode=tps00001&toolbox=types
ageing population will continue to enjoy an active lifestyle and
it is wealthier than the previous generations. Subsequently, it • Population projections
represents an interesting segment. http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/tgm/table.do?tab=table&in
it=1&language=en&pcode=tps00002&plugin=1
• Immigrants: this segment of the population can serve as a
gateway for introducing new flavours, tastes and styles from • Study on regional population projections
different parts of the world. They are already familiar with what http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/cache/ITY_OFFPUB/KS-
is new to Europeans and they can thus act as ambassadors. SF-10-001/EN/KS-SF-10-001-EN.PDF
Moreover, as Europeans are confronted with new and different
cultures, their interest and willingness to try out new things will • Ageing population
increase. http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/tgm/mapToolClosed.do?ta
b=map&init=1&plugin=1&language=en&pcode=tps00028&
• Rising number of small households: the demand for one- toolbox=types
person packages is on the rise and what is generally required
for setting up a household. • Migration
http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/tgm/table.do?tab=table&in
• Working women: as women become more financially indepen- it=1&language=en&pcode=tps00157&plugin=1
dent, they spend their money on products that appeal to them
(fashion, home design). A side effect of this is that time tends • Education (level & women)
to become scarcer, which in turn gives rise to an increasing http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/cache/ITY_OFF
demand for convenience products. PUB/978-92-9201-033-1/EN/978-92-9201-033-1-EN.PDF
- see part F
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Module 1 Exporting to Europe l 13
15. Europe, A Technological Overview.
Why read this module?
This module will give you an overview of the most important technological
issues and developments in Europe that are relevant to you as an export-
er or BSO (business support organisation) from a developing country.
Together with the modules on Social Issues, Economy, Environment and
Politics, it provides you with the basic inputs for a so-called STEEP analy-
sis, by means of which you will be able to determine if Europe would be
an interesting market for you to investigate further.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Module 2 Exporting to Europe l 15
16. Introduction. Infrastructure.
This module covers infrastructure, use of internet and the presence The functioning of the European internal market and the close
of and investment in know-how in Europe. When relevant, differ- trade relations between the member states are supported by
ences between EU and EFTA countries are highlighted. a dense and diverse transport infrastructure. Road transport
is the most important means of transportation for goods traded
The general idea is that this module gives you basic information within Europe, accounting for almost half of all transport.
on the various relevant technological developments in Europe. Maritime transport comes second and railways third. The
We encourage you to find out more about this subject by providing EU disposes of 5.000.000 km of paved roads, out of which
you with several links to both CBI /SIPPO sources and external 61.600 km are motorways; 215.400 km of rail lines, out of
sources. which 107.400 km electrified; and 41.000 km of navigable
inland waterways. Total investment on transport infrastructure
on the period 2000-2006 was € 859 billion. As traffic between
Member States is expected to double by 2020, the EU will
continue to invest in a trans-European network, particularly
in the newer member states as there are large differences
in infrastructure between European regions, western and
northern infrastructure being more developed than in the south
and, in particular, in the east and the new member states.
Investments are set at € 500 billion from 2007 to 2020.
There are several entry points into Europe. The single market
and customs union mean that entering goods will follow the
same procedure regardless of entry point. For more informa-
tion, see the module on Political aspects.
Sea transport is by far the largest mode of transport for goods
entering Europe. Europe has some 1200 ports, the Port of
Rotterdam, the Netherlands, being the largest one, followed
by Antwerp, Belgium. The function of ports has developed
through the years to become logistics centres, offering ser-
vices such as storage, cool-chain services and processing of
materials and goods.
Air transport is the second most important means of trans-
portation for exporting to Europe (in value). In trade between
European countries, air transport is very small. Frankfurt
(Main), Germany, is the largest European airport in terms of
freight traffic, followed by Amsterdam/Schiphol, the Nether-
lands and London/ Heathrow, the UK.
16 l Exporting to Europe Module 2
18. Internet.
Next to the traditional infrastructure of roads, railroad and airfreight, • To become a single digital market; at present the digital market
the digital infrastructure is becoming an important factor in the is still fragmented, hampering cross-border digital trade.
international trade environment. Half of European productivity
growth over the past 15 years has been driven by information • Teaching all Europeans, regardless of age and social back-
and communications technologies. The EU has set up a Digital ground, to use the internet. Whereas half of the Europeans use
Agenda to increase cooperation between Member States in the internet daily, 30% has never used it. The Digital Agenda sets
digital market; thus far this has mainly been the case in the market the goal to make online services accessible to everyone.
for physical goods, and to encourage the use of internet among all
its citizens. The Digital Agenda was launched in 2010 and sets the • Increased access to fast and ultra-fast internet.
following goals for 2020:
• Enhance trust and security by strengthening the rules on
personal data protection.
• Unleash social benefits, by making online medical records
Figure 2.1: Top 20 European ports available to patients wherever they are in the EU by 2015.
Source: http://www.portofrotterdam.com/en/Port/
port-statistics/Documents/top_20_european_ports.pdf
18 l Exporting to Europe Module 2
19. Half of the Europeans use internet daily, and 60% use the internet Europeans are also increasingly using mobile phones, as Figure 2.3
at least once a week (Switzerland: 75.3%) (Sources: Eurostat and shows. In 2008 (the latest data available), the number of mobile phone
the International Telecommunication Union ITU). subscriptions in the EU was 122 per 100 inhabitants, compared to 87 in
2004. This strong increase is seen in practically all European countries.
There are, however, differences between the countries, with Greece,
Italy and Lithuania being in the top, whereas Austria, France, Malta and
Figure 2.2: Europeans frequently using the internet, %. Latvia have the fewest mobile phone subscriptions.
Source: Eurostat 2010
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Module 2 Exporting to Europe l 19
20. Know-how.
The EU has set out many strategies to invest in research and
development, R&D. The EU aims to become “the most competitive
and dynamic knowledge-based economy in the world”, and the
member states have reached agreements to spend at least 3% of
GDP on research, of which two thirds should be financed by the
business sector. Key investment areas should be knowledge and
growth, according to agreements reached in 2006 and 2007.
Figure 2.3: Mobile phone subscriptions per 100 inhabitants
Source: Eurostat 2010
20 l Exporting to Europe Module 2
21. Despite EU investments in R&D, several sectors, for various rea-
sons, face a lack of skilled labour. These include engineers, ac- Practical next steps.
countants, IT professionals and technical specialists. Investments
in R&D are not expected to meet domestic demand, meaning
there will be a gap in knowledge which must be filled by suppliers Find out industry practices for your sector: how are goods
from outside the EU. transported? In which quantities? How are they packaged?
When would you choose air freight above transport by sea?
CBI market surveys, at www.cbi.eu/marketinfo, may offer
What does this mean for you as an a good starting point. In addition, your branch organisation
exporter? may be able to answer these questions.
• New technology / ICT offers new means for reaching EU con- Read more
sumers; see the modules on developments in consumer markets
& developments in the B2B markets. In addition, the use of • EU transport infrastructure
new technology offers increasing opportunities for (IT-based) http://ec.europa.eu/transport/infrastructure/index_en.htm
services, including customer service and digitisation.
• Eurostat information on ICT
• Know-how: shortage of know-how will need to be filled from http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/portal/page/portal/
abroad, e.g. by outsourcing more than just labour-intensive information_society/data/main_tables
work; see the module on developments in the B2B markets.
• Publication: EU energy and transport in figures (2010)
• Transport: transport by sea is the most common mode of trans- http://ec.europa.eu/energy
port and the most important one for exporters from developing second half of the report concerns intra- and extra-EU
countries. In some cases air transport may be more relevant, transport
e.g. in case of fresh produce. The point of entry may not be your
final destination, in most cases additional means of transporta- • Publication: Science, Technology and Innovation in
tion will be needed for intra-European transportation to the final Europe (2010)
destination. http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/portal/page/portal/
product_details/publication?p_product_code=KS-32-10-225
• Investment in infrastructure: in addition to ensuring smooth
transport between the European countries, investments in • Switzerland Mobility and Transport Pocket Statistics
infrastructure will mean increased demand from the construction 2010
sector. Also see the relevant CBI market survey at http://www.bfs.admin.ch/bfs/portal/en/index/news/
publikationen.Document.132198.pdf
www.cbi.eu/marketinfo
• Port of Rotterdam
http://www.portofrotterdam.com/en/Pages/default.aspx
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Module 2 Exporting to Europe l 21
23. Europe, An Economic Overview.
Why read this module?
This module will give you an overview of the most important economic
issues and developments in Europe that are relevant to you as an ex-
porter or BSO (business support organisation) from a developing country.
Together with the modules on Social Issues, Technology, and Environ-
ment and Politics, it provides you with the basic input for a so-called
STEEP analysis, by means of which you will be able to determine if
Europe would be an interesting market for you to investigate further.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Module 3 Exporting to Europe l 23
24. Introduction. The European Monetary Union
& the Euro.
This module covers the European Monetary Union, the Euro,
European economic performance and international trade. When The European Central Bank (ECB) was established in 1998
appropriate, the differences between the EU and EFTA countries to guide the monetary and fiscal activities of the participating
have been highlighted. This module gives you basic information Member States. These EU Member States have gone further in
on the relevant economic developments in Europe. We encour- their cooperation than the Customs Union and single market (see
age you to find out more about this subject by providing you with the module: A Political Overview) and participate in the European
several links to both CBI /SIPPO sources and external sources. Monetary Union, or EMU. In 1999, the participating Member
States fixed the exchange rates of their currencies to the Euro,
giving birth to the “Euro-zone”. The euro (€) is probably the EU’s
most visible achievement. It is the single currency, now shared by
16 Member States, representing over two thirds of the EU popula-
tion. These 16 countries make up the Euro-zone, where the euro
is used as common currency.
New EU members are all due to adopt the euro when they are
able to meet the criteria. Slovenia was the first of countries from
the 2004 enlargement to do so, and it joined the euro area in
Table 3.1: European currencies in euro and US dollars, high-low, 2007, followed by Cyprus and Malta in 2008 and Slovakia in 2009.
October 2009 - October 2010
Euro US dollar
Country Currency Low-high Oct 2009 Low-high Oct 2009 – Oct 2010
- Oct 2010
Euro-zone 2010:
Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Finland, France, Germany,
Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Euro 1 1.19-1.51
The Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain
Bulgaria Lev 0.51-0.52 0.61-0.77
Czech Republic Koruna 0.04-0.04 0.05-0.06
Denmark Krone 0.13-0.13 0.16-0.20
Estonia Kroon 0.06-0.06 0.08-0.10
Hungary Forint 0.003-0.004 0.004-0.006
Latvia Lats 1.41-1.44 1.67-2.14
Lithuania Litas 0.29-0.30 0.34-0.44
Norway Krone 0.12-0.13 0.15-0.18
Poland Zloty 0.23-0.26 0.28-0.37
Romania Leu 0.00002-0.00002 0.00003-0.00004
Sweden Krona 0.09-0.11 0.12-0.15
Switzerland Franc 0.66-0.78 0.85-1.03
United Kingdom Pound sterling 1.06-1.24 1.42-1.69
Source: www.oanda.com
24 l Exporting to Europe Module 3
25. Economic performance.
The EU and EFTA countries experienced years of continued
economic growth, until the financial crisis brought an end to it in
2009. The economy is expected to begin to recover with growth
forecasted already for 2010.
Figure 3.1: Real GDP growth rate in the EU 27 2003-2011
4
3
2
1
0
-1
-2
-3
-4
-5
Source: Eurostat 2010
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Module 3 Exporting to Europe l 25
26. Figure 3.2: GDP per capita in Purchasing Power Standards compared to EU-27 (=100)
Source: Eurostat 2010
There are large differences between the countries, however, which
can be seen in Figure 3.2, showing the variations in GDP per capi-
ta between the countries. Nonetheless, the gap tends to decrease.
For example, the regions between the south of England, through
the Benelux countries, France, Western Germany and the north
of Italy are the wealthiest areas. On the other hand, Eastern Ger-
many, the south of Italy, Spain, Portugal and Greece lag behind
economically. As well as lower income levels, these areas tend to
have higher unemployment, a less educated/skilled labour force,
lower population density and a migrating population.
International trade.
The EU is the major player in world trade, and it is ahead of the
United States and China. The most important trading partners
are the United States, China and Russia. After years of growth,
both imports and exports saw a decrease in 2009 as a result of
the financial crisis. In September 2010, the EU reported that the
European economy was recovering faster than expected.
26 l Exporting to Europe Module 3
28. The EFTA states, with Switzerland and Norway as main markets,
show similar developments:
Figure 3.3: Evolution of EFTA States’ trade with the world, 1998-2009
Source: EFTA 2010
http://www.efta.int/free-trade/~/media/Documents/free-trade/ The EU is the largest trading partner for LDCs (Least Developed
Trade%20Statistics/world-evolution.ashx
Countries) and has an open regime towards ACP (African, Carib-
bean and Pacific) countries; see the module A Political Overview.
EU imports from developing countries also saw a steady increase
up until 2008, when the financial crisis led to a drop in most of the
imports from developing countries to the EU area. For figures on
your sector, please refer to the CBI market surveys which you can
find on
www.cbi.eu/marketinfo
Source: http://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/html/122532.htm
28 l Exporting to Europe Module 3
29. What does this mean for you as an
exporter?
Economic growth leads to an overall increase in demand. At same Practical next steps.
time, exchange rates will have an influence on trade: a strong
currency means that imports will become attractive as these are
relatively cheap, whereas a weak currency will make imported • Find out how your sector is performing in the EU. Read
goods relatively expensive. Exchange rates also give rise for un- the relevant CBI market survey which you can find in the
certainties in international trade. The Euro-zone helps to eliminate CBI Market Information Database: www.cbi.eu/marketinfo.
these uncertainties among the participating countries. Choose your sector and the EU. Choose “Sector surveys”
and download the relevant survey.
• Have a look at EFTA trade statistics:
http://www.efta.int/free-trade/trade-statistics.aspx
Take it a step further, and find out about the trade
for your product:
• EU Export Helpdesk: http://exporthelp.europa.eu
Choose “Trade statistics” and “Input Form”.
• Norway: Consult the Norwegian statistics office:
http://www.ssb.no/english/
• Switzerland: Consult the Swiss statistics office:
http://www.bfs.admin.ch/bfs/portal/en/index.html
Read more
• Actual exchange rates http://www.oanda.com/
• Eurostat information on the financial crisis
http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/portal/page/portal/financi
al_crisis/introduction
all statistical information gathered at European level in
view of the financial crisis.
• EU Trade in the world up to 2009, including imports
from DCs & LDCs
http://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/html/122532.htm
• Eurostat Publication: External trade (Eurostat 2010)
http://epp.eurostat.ec.europa.eu/cache/ITY_OFFPUB/KS-
SF-10-028/EN/KS-SF-10-028-EN.PDF
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Module 3 Exporting to Europe l 29
31. Europe, An Environmental Overview.
Why read this module?
This module will give you an overview of the most important environ-
mental issues and developments in Europe that are relevant to you as
an exporter or BSO (business support organisation) from a developing
country. Together with the modules on Social issues, Technology, Econ-
omy and Politics, it provides you with the basic input that is necessary
to make a so-called STEEP analysis. This will enable you to determine
whether Europe might be an interesting market for you to investigate
further.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Module 4 Exporting to Europe l 31
32. Introduction.
This module describes key areas in European environmental Waste
policy that affect international trade. When relevant, differences As Europe has grown wealthier, the amount of waste that it produces
between the EU and EFTA countries have been highlighted. has increased as well! To tackle this, the EU has introduced a
This module provides you with basic information concerning the policy with three key areas: 1) waste prevention, 2) recycling and
relevant environmental developments in Europe. We would like re-use and 3) improved final disposal and handling.
to encourage you to find out more about this subject by offering
several links to both CBI /SIPPO sources and external sources. When it comes to trade, the first area, waste prevention, is the
most important, as the best way to prevent waste is to use as little
unnecessary material to begin with! In support of this view, legisla-
Priority areas & international tion on packaging has been established. In addition, legislation
cooperation. on what should be done with the waste produced by electric and
electronic equipment (WEEE) has been drawn up, which obliges
The EU and EFTA countries have signed many international the importer to participate in product take-back schemes. The
agreements and they participate in making a global effort to deal importer is likely to pass on some of his obligations to his suppliers!
with key environmental issues, such as climate change, nature Switzerland and Norway have introduced corresponding measures.
and biodiversity, environment and health and natural resources.
Below, some key areas are described that have a direct link to
international trade. For more information on multilateral agreements, Buying green.
please refer to the ‘Read More’ section.
Besides the areas mentioned above which result mainly in restric-
Biodiversity tions, actors in the EU go further than that in order to stimulate
The most important act on biodiversity in view of international environmentally-friendly products. Certain industries go beyond
trade, is the Convention on International Trade in Endangered legal requirements in their sector-wide agreements, whereas
Species (CITES). Signatories to CITES have agreed to strictly authorities are also pledging to buy ‘green’ under so-called Green
regulate trade in endangered species. The EU and EFTA Member Public Procurement (GPP). Under GPP, criteria are outlined for
States have signed CITES. In addition, the EU has introduced product groups, and public authorities pledge to buy according to
CITES in EU-wide legislation. This means that endangered plants these criteria. EU consumers are also paying more attention to
and animals, or products made from them, are strictly restricted in environmental issues when making a purchasing decision. In ad-
Europe. dition to the environmental themes mentioned above, issues such
as energy use and green energy play a role, in which one more
Chemicals recent trend is to look at CO2 performance, with the aim to bet
Chemicals and their possible negative health effects were placed “CO2 neutral”. Good environmental performance might enhance
high on the agenda in the EU as it soon became clear that the your chances of success in the European market! We would like to
legislation at the time was not adequate for protecting consumer refer you to the modules Developments in Business-to-Business
health. That is why in the mid-nineties a lengthy process took Markets and Developments in the Consumer Markets for more
place to reform the EU legislation on chemicals, which in turn information.
led to the introduction of the much-discussed REACH legislation.
Under REACH, industry is required to provide information on the
chemicals used, and those chemicals which are found to be harm-
ful will be disbanded with. Although this ruling forms part of EU-
legislation, the EFTA Member States will also need to amend their
legal requirements so that they are in keeping with the REACH
legislation. In this way the trade barriers can be abolished.
32 l Exporting to Europe Module 4
33. Practical next steps.
Biodiversity: Check out the restrictions in CITES & EU
legislation. A good starting point is the CBI information guide
which outlines CITES & EU legislation in a step-by-step plan:
www.cbi.eu/marketinfo
Chemicals: Find out whether your products fall within the
scope of REACH! A good starting point is the CBI informa-
tion guide, which explains the legislation and which contains
more than 400 pages! See: www.cbi.eu/marketinfo
Waste: Legal requirements on packaging and the WEEE
legislation are good starting points, check out the information
in CBI’s Market Information Database:
What does this mean for you as an - WEEE (search word): www.cbi.eu/marketinfo
exporter? - Packaging (search word): www.cbi.eu/marketinfo
• Biodiversity: make sure no materials or (parts of) products you Buying green: find out about public criteria and industrial
work with are restricted under CITES. initiatives in the CBI Market Information Database.
Go to www.cbi.eu/marketinfo
• Chemicals: REACH goes beyond the legal requirements Select your sector and choose “Non-legislation” in the filter
that were set in place before when it comes to restricting and that appears. Also take a look at http://ec.europa.eu/environ-
banning hazardous chemicals. These substances will also be ment/gpp/index_en.htm where you can find more information
phased out when used in products, and it is therefore important about GPP, including criteria for product groups.
to find out whether your products are affected or not.
• Waste: everything that makes up a product eventually ends up Read more
as waste. With this in mind, chemicals and other substances
are restricted as early as the production stage. You need to be • EU Environment http://ec.europa.eu/environment
aware of legal requirements, as well as industrial practices in
support of this view. • EU Multilateral environmental agreements
http://ec.europa.eu/environment
• Buying green: Taking advantage of the trend to search for
environmentally-friendly alternatives could create more opportu- • Trade & environment http://ec.europa.eu/trade
nities. By first finding out what are the criteria – these are either
set in industrial initiatives or in GPP, or as a preference shown • EU Wildlife trade; outlining EU legislation and CITES
by consumers – you might even be able to benefit. www.eu-wildlifetrade.org
• CITES www.cites.org
• REACH http://ec.europa.eu/enterprise
• GPP http://ec.europa.eu/environment/gpp
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Module 4 Exporting to Europe l 33
35. Europe, A Political Overview.
Why read this module?
This module will give you an overview of the most important political
issues and developments in Europe that are relevant to you as an export-
er or BSO (business support organisation) from a developing country.
Together with the modules on Social Issues, Technology, Economy and
Environment, it provides you with the basic input required for making a
so-called STEEP analysis. In this way you can decide whether Europe
would be an interesting market for you to investigate further.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Module 5 Exporting to Europe l 35
36. Introduction.
This module covers an introduction into the EU and EFTA, the • Trade between EU countries
single market and customs union, trade rules & agreements,
legislation and information on how goods enter the market. When • Removing technical barriers to trade
relevant, the differences between the EU and the EFTA countries
have been highlighted. This module gives you basic information on • Opening new markets for public contracts, etc.
the political developments taking place in Europe. We would like
to encourage you to find out more about this subject and we have • Eliminating queues at border crossings
therefore suggested several links to both CBI /SIPPO sources and
external sources. Since its founding nearly 60 years ago, the EU has been like a
magnet, attracting a constant stream of new members, achiev-
ing its historic and successful expansion from 15 to 25 Member
The EU & EFTA: an introduction. States in May 2004. The last two Member States joined in 2007,
making the current number of Member States 27.
The EU and EFTA together consist of 31 European countries,
which subsequently form a market of more than 510 million poten- These are:
tial consumers.
• Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, The Netherlands
(joined 1952)
EU.
• Denmark, Ireland, United Kingdom (joined 1973)
The European Union (EU) is a group of European countries,
committed to working together. Its Member States have set up • Greece (joined 1981)
common institutions in which they share some of their decision-
making so that specific matters of joint interest can be made at • Portugal, Spain (joined 1986)
European level. The idea for a European Union was conceived
in 1950 with a co-operation between six Member States, which • Austria, Finland, Sweden (joined 1995)
was mainly concerned with trade and the economy. Nowadays,
in 2010, the EU embraces 27 Member States and almost half • Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania,
a billion people, and it covers a wide range of issues that are Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia (joined 2004)
significantly important in everyday life.
• Bulgaria, Romania (joined 2007)
Although differences exist in many of the traditions and lan-
guages that can be found in the Member States, the EU fosters Further enlargement
cooperation among the peoples of Europe, promoting unity while Any European country can join the EU, provided it has a stable
preserving diversity. However, remain aware of the key differ- democracy that guarantees the rule of law, human rights and the
ences (social, technological, economic, political and cultural, see protection of minorities. It must also have a functioning market
respective modules) within the EU as they may affect your export economy and a civil service capable of applying EU laws. The
development planning. Despite their differences, the EU has EU has started negotiations with Croatia and Turkey, while the
been operating as a single market for quite some time. This has Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia has been recognized as
been advantageous to the Member States of the EU in terms of: a candidate country.
36 l Exporting to Europe Module 5
37. Figure 5.1: EU and EFTA Member States 2010
Source: http://europa.eu/abc/12lessons and www.efta.int
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Module 5 Exporting to Europe l 37
38. EFTA. Taxes.
The European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is an intergovern- The EU tax system is not harmonized between the Member
mental organisation set up for the promotion of free trade and eco- States (meaning each EU country has its own tax system), but
nomic integration to the benefit of its four Member States. EFTA there are certain common rules that must be respected. VAT
was formed in 1960 as a response to the formation of what we (Value Added Tax) rates have been partially aligned, but there
today know as the EU. Some countries which did not participate are still differences between Member States.
in the EU formed EFTA and took similar steps towards a better
trade climate between the Member States. EFTA has seen several
changes in its members, with several countries joining to later What do the EU & EFTA mean for
leave to join the EU.
you as an exporter?
EFTA today consists of four Member States: The objectives for having a single market that facilitates trade
between countries: the same import duty rates for products
• Norway and Switzerland (joined 1960) from outside the area are applicable in all countries, and goods
accepted in one country are also accepted in other countries.
• Iceland (joined 1970) Candidate countries will need to adjust their trade environment to
be in line with the rest of the EU. But it also means that the single
• Liechtenstein (joined 1991) market is made up of several different countries – although much
has been done to facilitate the technical aspects of trade, you still
do business with people. Europe is a diverse market in terms of
Single Market & Customs Union. languages, cultures, business practices, consumer interests and
needs. You need to know when the “single market” idea applies,
The EEA, European Economic Area, combines the 27 EU Mem- and when you are better off adjusting your approach according to
ber States and the EFTA states (except for Switzerland) in an regional or national differences.
internal, or single, market, where the participating countries follow
the same basic rules. This entails the free movement of goods,
services, people and capital. In other words: products accepted
on one EEA market are also granted access to the other EEA
markets.
The Customs Union is an important aspect of the single market. It
means that there is a general application of common rules at the
external borders of the single market. Custom duties and tariffs
are the same in all countries when a product enters from outside
the area.
Switzerland does not belong to the EEA, but it does have a
number of bilateral agreements with the EU. Switzerland largely
follows EU legislation with impact on international trade, including
product legislation.
38 l Exporting to Europe Module 5
39. Trade rules & agreements.
WTO - Trade rules and agreements
Read more. The EU and EFTA are part of the global trade environment, and
trade practices introduced and handled by the EU and EFTA must
be in line with international practices. The World Trade Organisa-
• EU in 12 lessons http://europa.eu/abc/12lessons tion (WTO) is the main organisation that deals with international
an overview of the EU’s history, its goals, areas of trade rules. These rules include WTO trade agreements such as
cooperation, the euro, member states, etc. the GATT, GATS, TRIPS, SPS and TBT as well as individual coun-
tries’ commitments to lower customs tariffs. The WTO is composed
• EFTA www.efta.int of governments and political entities (such as the EU). Today, in
2010, the WTO includes 153 members. A vast majority of these
• EEA www.efta.int/eea.aspx members are developing countries.
• EU enlargement http://ec.europa.eu The Doha Development Agenda started in 2001, and it pro-
vides a platform where global trade can be discussed between
• Single market http://europa.eu/pol/singl the members, and where developing country needs are given
special attention. Tariff cuts and farm reform have been part of the
• European Customs Information Portal negotiations, but so far the parties have not managed to reach an
http://ec.europa.eu/ecip agreement and the future of Doha is uncertain at the moment.
• Switzerland and EU cooperation Internationally accepted standards
http://eeas.europa.eu/switzerland Codex Alimentarius: this is the most important international or-
ganisation which establishes internationally recognized standards
• Find out about the different VAT levels in various related to food safety. Although the Codex standards are not
countries. mandatory, the EU uses them as a basis for the development of its
own food policy and standards. EU legislation frequently refers to
- You can find a list of applicable VAT rates in the different the Codex as the basis for the established requirements.
Member States here:
http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs ISO: the ISO, International Organisation for Standardisation, has
set up technical regulations for a number of product groups. These
- Alternatively go to the EU export helpdesk: are widely used and often requested by (European) buyers. Also
http://exporthelp.europa.eu/index_en.html. read the module on developments in business to business for
Choose “Requirements and Taxes” and “Input Form”. more information on this topic.
Other relevant trade agreements - EU and other countries
See also module Europe, Cultural Aspects. A number of additional trade agreements exist with different
groupings of developing countries. The EU has Economic Partner-
ship Agreements (EPAs) with seven regions in ACP countries:
five African regions, one in the Caribbean and one in the Pacific.
The EPAs include technical support and training for the countries
to comply with standards set by the EU. Another EU instrument
is “Aid for trade”, which is financial assistance for developing coun-
tries specifically targeted at helping them develop their capacity to
trade.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Module 5 Exporting to Europe l 39
40. Under the Generalised System of Preferences (GPS), 176 devel-
oping countries have reduced tariffs for their goods when entering Practical next steps.
the EU market. The EU’s GSP is implemented following a cycle of
ten years. The present cycle lasts from 2006 to 2015.
Find out about trade agreements between the EU, EFTA and
Everything But Arms (EBA) provides the most favourable regime your country:
available. The EBA gives the 49 least developed countries duty
free access to the EU for all products, except arms and ammuni- • Find out about bilateral agreements between your
tion. country/region and the EU:
- EU information: http://ec.europa.eu/trade/creating-
What does this mean for you as an opportunities/bilateral-relations/
exporter?
- EU export Helpdesk, choose “Preferential arrangements”:
Preferential trade agreements between your country and the Euro- http://exporthelp.europa.eu/index_en.html
pean countries will give you a competitive advantage compared to
exporters from countries where there is not such an agreement. • Find out about bilateral agreements between your
country/region and EFTA::
- Free Trade Agreements:
http://www.efta.int/free-trade/free-trade-agreements.aspx
- EFTA & WTO: http://www.efta.int/free-trade/fta-and-wto.aspx
• WTO Regional Trade Agreements Information System:
http://rtais.wto.org/UI/PublicMaintainRTAHome.aspx
• Find out about tariffs:
- EU Export Helpdesk, choose “Tariffs”:
http://exporthelp.europa.eu/index_en.html
- EU customs tariffs data base TARIC:
http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs
- EFTA:
Swiss Federal Customs Association: http://xtares.admin.ch
Norway: www.toll.no
- As an alternative, you can check at the customs office in
your target country!
40 l Exporting to Europe Module 5
41. Read more.
• WTO: www.wto.org Other relevant international organisations are:
• Doha Development Agenda: • UNCTAD (UN Conference on Trade & Development):
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/dda_e/dda_e.htm http://www.unctad.org
• ACP EPAs: http://ec.europa.eu/trade/creating-opportuni • OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation &
ties/bilateral-relations/regions/africa-caribbean-pacific/ Development): http://www.oecd.org
• Codex Alimentarius: http://www.codexalimentarius.net • FAO (Food & Agriculture Organisation of the UN):
http://www.fao.org
- See the CBI Market Information Database:
www.cbi.eu/marketinfo. Type “codex alimentarius” in the • ITC (International Trade Centre): http://www.intracen.org
keyword search option.
• ICTSD (International Centre for Trade & Sustainable
• ISO: www.iso.org Development): http://www.ictsd.org
- See the CBI Market Information Database: • ILO (International Labour Organisation): http://www.ilo.org
www.cbi.eu/marketinfo. Type “ISO” in the keyword search
option. • CEN (European Committee for Standardisation):
http://www.cenorm.be
• Aid for trade: http://ec.europa.eu/trade/wider-agenda/
development/aid-for-trade/ • Taxes in Europe database:
http://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/taxinv/welcome.do
• EBA: http://ec.europa.eu/trade/wider-agenda/development/
generalised-system-of-preferences/everything-but-arms/ • EU bilateral relations - http://ec.europa.eu/trade/creating-
opportunities/bilateral-relations/
- look up EU trade relations per country or region.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Module 5 Exporting to Europe l 41
42. Legislation.
Consumer safety is the main driver behind legal product require- This is how the legal system works:
ments. In addition, reducing the negative impact products might
have on the environment has increasingly become an important 1. The scope of legal requirements
factor when setting product legislation. The EU/EEA/EFTA or any trading partner outside your own
country can only set legal requirements related to the product that
One of the aspects of the single market is the freedom of move- has been placed on the market. Production processes which do
ment for goods. This means that a product accepted in one coun- not directly influence the quality/safety of the product cannot be
try, is also granted access to another country within the single controlled by legal measures. In practice, this means that EU legal
market. For this to function optimally, legal product requirements requirements have the following general characteristics for the four
must be harmonized. This is also what the EU/EEA is aiming at, main sectors:
and the countries have come a long way in terms of harmonisa-
tion. Switzerland, though not a Member of the EU/EEA, has also • Agriculture: General food safety has been outlined in the frame
taken steps to keep in line with EU/EEA legal requirements. work General Food Legislation, and in accordance, all food
must be safe. To guarantee this, the general principle of only
checking the product entering the EU/EFTA region has in
practice been extended to include hygiene and traceability
measures throughout the chain. Norway and the other EFTA
countries participating in the EEA are in line with EU food
legislation. In Switzerland, different legal acts form a legal
environment which corresponds to that of the EU, and products
accepted in the EU or one of the EFTA Member States have
access in all of the EU/EFTA countries.
For non-food agricultural products, the focus is on the product
entering the market, which in practice often means that the
presence of certain substances has been restricted in the
manufacturing of the product.
• Consumer goods: Safety aspects are established in a
framework agreement, the General Product Safety Directive,
and in addition requirements are set for the presence of
hazardous substances. CE-marking also applies to some
consumer goods, for instance toys.
• Industrial products: Limits have been set for hazardous
substances present in the final product. In addition, safety
requirements have been set for many industrial products in
legislation which have established the so-called CE-marking.
hazardous substances.
• Services: As services are not physically traded, legal
requirements are generally not applicable. Be aware though that
your European trading partner may have other requirements!
42 l Exporting to Europe Module 5