The Government of Fiji notified the European Union yesterday of its decision to apply the interim Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the European Union.
The interim Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the EU and Fiji is therefore ready for implementation.
The EPA provides for free access into the EU for all products from the countries concerned.
In the Pacific region, Papua New Guinea has already ratified this agreement and implementation is on-going.
An EU spokesperson for trade said Fiji’s decision to apply the interim Economic Partnership Agreement is a very significant step in our relationship.
This agreement is a true partnership for trade and development.
The interim Economic Partnership Agreement provides for duty-free quota-free market access into the EU for all exports originating from Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
For its part, Fiji will gradually open its market to European exports over a transitional period until 2023, with the exception of some agricultural and industrial sensitive products.
In addition, the Agreement contains provisions on trade defense instruments, dispute settlement and sustainable development principles.
This agreement is also open to other Pacific ACP states that wish to join.
The fourth meeting of the Committee between the EU and Papua New Guinea will be the occasion to fully associate Fiji with the implementation.
