November 22, 2001

'16'

PASCAL LAMY CALLS ON MARAN

        Mr. Pascal Lamy, the EC Commissioner for Trade, called on Shri Murasoli Maran, Minister of Commerce & Industry, here today and had an exchange of views with Shri Maran on bilateral trade issues, including market access for products of export interest to India, especially textiles. While noting the steady growth of bilateral trade with the EU which stood at US $ 20.6 billion in 2000-2001, Shri Maran flagged a number of issues which needed to be resolved for diversifying and expanding the present level of two-way trade. He specifically took up with Mr. Lamy the issues of market access for Indian textiles; extension of benefits under the GSP (Generalised System of Preferences) Scheme, including standstill facility for sectors like marine products, transport equipment, tobacco etc. and sought parity in the EU tariff structure for Indian gherkins and floriculture items. Mr. Lamy on his part agreed with Shri Maran on the scope for further enhancing the two-way trade and described his visit as a welcome opportunity to revisit bilateral trade issues. He highlighted EU's concerns relating to the tariff structure for spirits and wines imported into India and sought improved market access for other products of interest to the EU. Referring to regional trading arrangements, Mr. Lamy said there was great scope for maximising GSP benefits within regional trade framework such as the SAARC.

        While expressing satisfaction at the substantial increase in bilateral trade in 2000-2001 despite the global slowdown, Mr. Lamy emphasised that there was nonetheless room for considerable improvement in the areas of both trade and investment and reiterated EU's commitment to deepen the economic dialogue with India at various levels.