Emma McClarkin MEP welcomes EU/Thailand Free Trade Agreement talks

East Midlands Conservative MEP, Emma McClarkin, has today welcomed the news that the EU is going to start negotiations on a free trade agreement with Thailand.

Later this month the Thai Prime Minister will be making an official visit to Brussels, which will mark the start of official negotiations between the EU and Thailand.

In 2011 Thailand was ranked 29th in the world for GDP (Gross Domestic Product) by the world bank1, ahead of Hong Kong, Singapore, and Ireland. Thailand’s economy grew by 6.4% in last year2, and is already a significant trading partner of the EU

Currently the EU works closely with Thailand under the EU-Asean Cooperation Agreement, as well as enjoying trade preferences with the country. However a free trade agreement between the EU and Thailand – whilst being tough to negotiate – would help to ensure more trade between them.

Miss McClarkin said:

“I very much welcome the news that official negotiations are due to begin soon. A free-trade agreement between The EU and Thailand would be great news for businesses across the East Midlands, and would open up another market for them to easily trade with. This will give more opportunities for exporting, and help to grow our region’s economy.

“The EU needs to show it is prepared to open its markets, as well as open opportunities for EU countries to trade outside of the EU.”