EU anti-subsidy law and practice

Book abstract:

The term 'EU anti-subsidy law' refers to the administrative proceedings that the European Commission can take to redress the problem of subsidies given by an outside country to benefit its own industry's imports into the European Union. This can have negative effects for those industries within a country producing the same goods as the subsidised imports, and affects free competition and international trade. The book aims to define what a subsidy is, when it can be investigated and the remedies that are available to redress the imbalance.

The book is divided into three parts. The first looks at Multilateral Disciplines on Subsidies in the WTO. It has sections on the GATT provisions, the WTO agreement on subsidies and countervailing measures, and remedies available under WTO law. Part 2 is entitled The EU Anti-Subsidy Rules. Sections examine the legal framework, the concept of what a subsidy is, and the substantive elements behind injury and Community interest. Part 3, Procedure and Remedies, looks at the process of investigation, countervailing measures, reviews and refunds, and judicial remedies. Tables of references to cases and decisions, international agreements and EU legislation are included. Appendices of relevant official documentation are also included.

The book provides a detailed guide to legal considerations surrounding the EU's handling of anti-subsidy proceedings and is aimed at students and practitioners.

Dr Konstantinos Adamantopoulos is the managing partner of Hammond Suddards Edges's Brussels office and heads the European Law Unit and Trade Team. Maria J Pereyra-Friedrichsen regularly lectures on WTO and EU trade matters.