The new free trade agreements between the EU and India, as well as Mercosur, were recently announced with considerable media attention. These agreements are also intended to contribute to..
The aim is to accelerate the diversification of European supply chains and sales markets and to reduce dependence on the major markets of China and the USA. The dynamic markets of the Global South are still underrepresented in European trade statistics, but according to the EU Commission's plans, this should change as quickly as possible. The agreements also send a strong signal at a time when protectionist trade policies seem to be becoming increasingly acceptable.
However, it should not be overlooked that Argentina, Brazil, and India are not replacing the USA or China. Last year, India was Thuringia's 24th largest trading partner, and the Mercosur region combined was its 20th largest. China (trade share: 16 percent) and the USA (trade share: 8 percent) remain by far the two most important trading partners for the Free State of Thuringia.
The agreements nevertheless shift trade flows somewhat in the right direction, making European companies more resilient to geopolitical uncertainties and unpredictable tariff policies. They also offer undeniable new market opportunities for Thuringian companies. It is therefore advisable to closely monitor developments, examine potential tariff advantages and rules of origin early on, and strategically prepare market entry strategies for India and South America. Those who position themselves in a timely manner can benefit from improved competitive conditions and new growth potential!
LEG offers effective support in this regard: For example, Thüringen International is organizing a [event/conference] from May 30th to June 6th Delegation trip to India led by the Thuringian Minister-President Mario Voigt.
The event will take place on March 31st Online event “Green Tech and Transformation Technologies in Argentina” instead, which in cooperation with the Thuringian Renewable Energy Network (ThEEN) The event is being organized. It will take place from April 19th to April 21st as part of the Hannover Messe trade fair "German-Brazilian Business Days" The event, which is expected to draw high-ranking politicians and business leaders, will take place on [date/time]. Places are limited – please contact [contact information/contact details] Carine Cornez-Fliege.
Furthermore, Dietmar Sukop, the Thuringian representative for international affairs in Brazil, is available as a local contact person for Thuringian companies. Further information about the representatives for international affairs and the possibility of booking an appointment can be found on the [website/page name] Website of our international representative.
Very recent: All international representatives will be available for individual consultations at the 18th Thuringian Foreign Trade Day in Jena. If you are interested, we recommend booking an appointment as soon as possible.
