PRESS STATEMENT - 03.02.2016

Today, the European Parliament’s plenary adopted recommendations to the European Commission on the ongoing ‘Trade in Services’ (TiSA) agreement ^[1].

Monique Goyens, Director General of The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC), commented:

“It is good news for consumers that Members of the European Parliament are saying that trade deals must deliver for consumers and be more transparent. We expect the Commission to heed this call during negotiations to conclude a deal on trade in services.

“Today’s vote underlines that consumer protection measures must not be seen as obstacles to trade. TiSA – or any other trade deal – must bring concrete benefits to consumers, whilst safeguarding both present and future levels of protection. We are particularly pleased to see the Parliament pick up real consumer concerns, such as high telecom prices, lack of consumer redress or geoblocking practices. Such recommendations are crucial to make balanced trade deals that work for people.”

^[1] TiSA is an agreement currently being negotiated by the EU and 22 countries. Its objective is to liberalise and facilitate trade in services like e-commerce, telecommunications, financial services and transport.