Trade
How the European Union is shaping its trade relations with the rest of the world.
Trade policy is an exclusive EU competence. It is the EU, rather than the member states, that legislates on trade matters and concludes international trade agreements.
By acting together as one, EU countries benefit from increased negotiating power with other countries.
Facts and figures on trade
The EU is the top trading partner for 66 partners, representing 52% of the world's GDP. It is also the world leader in trade in goods and services combined, with a 15.8% share of world trade in 2024 (ahead of China and the US).
Over 30 million jobs (i.e. one in seven jobs) in the EU depend on exports out of the EU.
The EU is the largest trader in the world
- EU: 15.8%
- US: 13.6%
- China: 13.4%
- UK: 4.2%
- Japan: 3.6%
- others: 49.4%
A single voice in international trade
The EU wants to ensure fair, open and equitable trade with the rest of the world, and is committed to a strong, rules-based multilateral trading system.
The EU shields Europe's producers and businesses from unfair foreign practices.
The EU follows the principles and rules established by the World Trade Organization.
Through geographical indications, the EU promotes and protects European food and drinks worldwide.
EU trade agreements
EU trade agreements shape trade relations with non-EU countries with a view to creating better trading opportunities and overcoming barriers to trade.
The EU has over 40 agreements in place with around 80 partners. It is in the process of adopting or ratifying agreements with a further 27 partners.
The EU shapes trade relations with non-EU countries through various types of trade deals.
Trade negotiations are a multi-step process in which a number of players have their say.
Trade relations with countries and regions
Countries
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Last review: 13 August 2026
