The EU–US tariffs and trade

On this page, you will find our analyses of the EU–US trade and trade policy.

Tariffs do not improve trade balance

A new empirical study shows that higher tariffs are not an effective way to reduce a country's trade deficit.

Tariffs do not Improve the Trade Balance

A central premise of US trade policy under the Trump administration is the idea that higher tariffs reduce the trade deficit. At first glance, this may seem logical. However, there is no correlation between high tariffs and a positive trade balance. In fact, a policy mix that includes higher tariffs is more likely to...

A revised GDPR can boost EU’s digital trade and competitiveness

The GDPR has set a global benchmark for data privacy, strengthening trust and influencing international regulations. However, it has also introduced regulatory uncertainty, high compliance costs, and barriers to cross-border data flows, which have reduced EU trade and productivity.

The GDPR and International Trade

Data regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) can strengthen global data privacy standards and increase trust, thereby benefiting trade. However, the GDPR has also created regulatory uncertainty, increased compliance costs, and hampered cross-border data flows, which have negatively affected EU...

Dario Iulianella

Ukrainian food companies explore Swedish market with OTGS support

A Ukrainian food business is working to expand its exports to Sweden and the EU, receiving guidance and support from Open Trade Gate Sweden (OTGS). By participating in trade fairs and gaining insights into market requirements, this business is taking important steps towards establishing a presence in the Swedish and...

Revitalising the single market for services

The services sector plays a central role for productivity, competitiveness, and inclusive growth in the modern economy. Services account for three-quarters of the EU's GDP, create 9 out of 10 new jobs, and are crucial for the success of the green and digital transition.

The Swedish market for apparel and home textiles

Sweden has a renowned fashion and home textiles industry, fronted by international giants like H&M and IKEA. These are followed by a number of brands (also) operating on an international stage.

Analysis: Foreign Owners Boost Swedish Productivity

A new analysis by the Swedish National Board of Trade reveals that productivity in Swedish companies increases after foreign acquisitions—but the effects vary depending on the origin of the new owners.

Multinational Firms and Productivity

In this analysis, the Swedish National Board of Trade has examined what happens to the productivity of Swedish companies that are acquired by foreign firms. Do the effects differ depending on whether the new owners are from Europe, North America, or Asia?

Trade policy could ease cross-border data flow conflicts with the GDPR

Cross-border data flows are an essential part of international trade, but a complex regulatory landscape makes it both expensive and difficult for businesses to move data across borders. However, according to a new report from the National Board of Trade, there are ways to improve the situation for businesses.

Navigating Cross-Border Data Flows and the GDPR

Limiting cross-border data flows can negatively affect economic growth. Businesses face specific challenges with regards to cross-border data transfers. This report analyses these challenges from a trade policy perspective and gives recommendations that could reduce regulatory complexity for international businesses.

AI could boost EU competitiveness and trade policy can help

To remain competitive in the age of AI, the EU must secure better access to key resources such as data, computing power, connectivity, energy, capital and skilled labour. As these inputs are not always available within the EU, international trade plays a key role.

Trade policy for sustainable development

Trade is highlighted in Agenda 2030 as an engine for inclusive economic growth, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. Trade policy instruments at global, regional and national levels can help promote sustainable development. This article explains how.

Trade and social sustainability

Trade liberalisation can promote economic growth and reduce poverty while at the same time affecting social structures through changes in the labour market, prices of consumer goods, economic opportunities, and private sector sustainability initiatives. This article examines how trade policy can be analysed and...

Trade and economic sustainability

International trade has contributed to economic growth and reduced poverty worldwide. At the same time, restructuring of economies and markets has meant the benefits of trade are not always equally shared amongst different groups, firms and regions. This article discusses how trade policies can contribute to more...

Trade Policy for the Age of AI

This policy brief examines the role of trade policy in enhancing the European Union’s (EU) competitiveness within an increasingly AI-driven global economy. It argues that achieving competitiveness in the age of AI requires access to essential inputs, including data, computing power, energy, connectivity, capital, and...

Trade for a circular economy

Circular economy policies promote the maintenance, repair, reuse and recycling of materials and products as well as improving biological processes to maintain natural capital. In this article, we highlight how trade and trade policy can facilitate the transition to a circular economy.

Trade and climate transition

The United Nations´ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13 aims for urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. This article addresses the question of how trade policy can support the climate transition.