Press Release: Easier trade of processed agricultural products between EU and Switzerland boosts EU exports

A new bilateral agreement concerning EU/Switzerland trade in processed agricultural products came into effect on 1 February 2005. As a result, EU exports of processed agricultural products to Switzerland increased by 10% in volume and 6% in value over the following year. With the entry into force of the agreement, the EU had abolished export refunds and import duties on most processed agricultural products. Switzerland reduced and in many cases eliminated export refunds and import duties. In addition, all alcoholic beverages – apart from grape juice with added spirit – benefit from free trade between the parties from 1 February 2006.

• Primary Source

European Commission: DG External Relations: Countries: Switzerland http://ec.europa.eu/comm/external_relations/switzerland/intro/index.htm

European Commission: DG Trade: Trade issues: Bilateral trade relations: Switzerland http://ec.europa.eu/comm/trade/issues/bilateral/countries/switzerland/index_en.htm

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