Survey backs EU claims on imports

An independent study for the European Commission shows the EU is one of the most open markets in the world to imports of farm products from developing countries.

Taking into account trade preferences given to developing countries, it noted the average customs duty actually applied by the EU to farm imports is 10.5%, three times lower than frequently mentioned data. EU Farm Commissioner Franz Fischler said these results make a mockery of criticisms regularly advanced by other developed countries, none of whom import anything like the same volume or value from developing countries, that the EU is protectionist.