EU-South Asia trade perspectives: State of play

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Abstract

The European Union is South Asia’s number one trading partner and has thus far engaged with the region mainly on commercial grounds. This paper provides a thorough analysis of the trade relations between the two blocs, devoting special attention to existing preferential trade agreements and specifically analysing the implications of EU policy on three national contexts. While highlighting the positive economic and developmental aspects of such agreements, the paper will also express some reservations as to the current implementation of the EU’s system of preferences, especially with regard to the human and labour rights conditionalities included. Due to South Asia’s increasing importance on the global playfield and its impressive economic growth, a case for increased engagement and strategic partnership between the EU and South Asia will be made, in the spirit of countering common concerns such as Chinese influence, maritime disputes, climate change and the fight against terrorism.