The European Union has concluded negotiations for a modernized Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with four states in East and Southern Africa: the Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius, and the Seychelles. According to the EU Commission, this agreement marks the first of its kind between the EU and partners in Sub-Saharan Africa, setting an important benchmark for future economic relationships between the two entities. Furthermore, the agreement facilitates the potential inclusion of additional ESA countries.
The EPA is designed to provide a framework that brings the EU and these ESA states closer together, governed by clear and predictable rules. The overarching goal is to foster economic opportunities and diversification for both parties, support regional and continental economic integration, and promote sustainable development within the ESA states. The EU Commission stated that the agreement will open new avenues for consumers and businesses on both continents, establishing a competitive and sustainable economic environment.
Specific areas covered by the agreement include clear rules and mechanisms for services and investments, public procurement, intellectual property, digital trade, and sustainability. A dedicated chapter on trade and sustainable development includes binding commitments addressing issues such as labor rights, environmental protection, and climate change. The implementation of the agreement will be bolstered by economic and development cooperation, strengthening the existing trade and investment frameworks in the four ESA nations.
EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic noted that the EPA with the Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius, and the Seychelles is “the first modern, comprehensive free trade agreement the EU has with partners in Sub-Saharan Africa.” He added that today’s agreement on its expansion and modernization constitutes a “historic milestone in the relationship between the EU and Africa.”
