Comments on the Use of Trade Defence Instruments against the EU in the Current Economic Downturn

In parallel with the economic downturn, the number of new trade defence actions (anti-dumping, countervailing and safeguard measures) initiated by non-EU countries against EU exports has more than doubled. This is a worrying trend given the increased risk of improper use of these instruments especially in time of global economic crisis, when Governments are under exceptional protectionist pressure. Despite diverging national practices, all countries have to apply these instruments in full compliance with their international obligations. Restraint should also be exercised to preserve the true objective of remedying distortions of competition and to avoid any abuse and undue restriction to trade.