European Union: Brussels' double zero plan for entrants

The European Commission is preparing to step up its campaign to remove trade barriers between the EU and Central and East European Countries (CEECs) before the latter start joining the EU. The aim is to avoid sudden shocks to food and agricultural markets, by introducing a period of adjustment. Pigmeat, poultry, cheese, and eggs will be subject to a bilateral and progressive liberalisation of trade, with diminishing export subsidies. Called the "double-zero-approach", the aim is to have no duties or export subsidies on either side within agreed trade quotas. The initial tariff quota volumes should be at least equal to the historic trade volumes and be increased annually. Estonia has already agreed to the double-zero-approach. {{PROVISIONS }}