ACEA

European metal and textile workers oppose trade deal with South Korea

September 2009 –The European Metalworkers Federation (EMF) and the European Trade Union Federation Textiles, Clothing and Leather (ETUF:TCL) oppose the Free Trade Agreement with South Korea in its current form. The workers confirm that it would damage European industries, including the European automotive industry, and call on South Korea to improve workers’ rights before the EU strikes a deal.

EMF and ETUF:TCL are alarmed that the discussed agreement could set a precedent for others. In particular, the proposed deal contains a duty drawback clause that would enable Korean manufacturers to buy parts in low-cost Asian countries without paying import duties. European industries would not have similar advantages.

• EMF Press Release: EU Free Trade Agreement with South Korea despite its record of repeated labour rights abuse
• ETUF:TCL Press Release: ETUF: TCL rises up in protesting against the EU – South Korea Free Trade Agreement
• Background: EU industries insist on improving trade deal with South Korea
• EU governments must denounce unfair competition to European industries in trade conditions for South Korea
• European automobile industry requests EU to suspend trade negotiations with South Korea
• Free trade agreement with South Korea must follow EU principles of mutual benefit and fair market access

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