Exporters can benefit from EU's new boys
The entry of Bulgaria and Romania into the European Union brings good news to Thai exporters, as the two countries will have to lower their import duties to the EU's level.
Tariffs now average 12 per cent for Bulgaria and 18.4 per cent for Romania, while the EU's common market averages 6.3 per cent, Friedrich Hamburger, head of the EU's delegation to Thailand, said yesterday.The EU's boundary will be redrawn on January 1 when Bulgaria and Romania become new members, bringing the total to 27 countries with 486 million people. "Newcomers see their natural place as members of the union. They join due to the attraction of the EU's economic, social and political achievements and as they share its goals of freedom, democracy, prosperity and peace," said Lars Backstrom from the Embassy of Finland, which holds the rotating EU presidency. "There will be a better quality of life throughout Europe as the new members adopt EU policies ranging from the protection of the environment to the fight against crime, drugs and illegal immigration," he said. The EU enlargement will also benefit third countries. Bulgaria and Romania will add to the EU single market - already the world's largest - of 30 million consumers. All the same rules, as well as preferential tariff treatment, that apply to the current 25 EU members, will apply to the newcomers. The first day of next year will also see Slovenia become the 13th EU country to adopt the euro, which will make it easier for Thai companies and tourists. The introduction of euro banknotes and coins will be followed by a period of dual circulation including the tolar. Politically, the enlargement will also increase the EU's strength, cohesion and influence in the world's affairs. "The EU will act more effectively in tackling global challenges and when working with partners such as Thailand and Asean," Hamburger said.
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