EP asks that TiSA talks open up new markets for EU firms, but protect EU consumers and public services

Talks on a Trade in Services Agreement (TiSA), with countries representing 70% of world trade in services, should deliver international rules and more opportunities for EU firms to supply services such as transport and telecoms in third countries. But “nothing should prevent EU, national and local authorities from maintaining, improving and applying their laws”, notably on labour, social protection and data protection, say MEPs’ recommendations to EU negotiators, voted on 3 February 2016.

In the resolution, MEPs set out their guidelines to the Commission, which is negotiating the deal on behalf of the EU. Only once the talks are concluded, MEPs will have the final say on whether to approve or reject a TiSA deal.