The European Commission’s ambition to have carbon tariffs at its borders for external trade as part of future trade deals received a boost with endorsement by France and the Netherlands this week.

The Commission made its plans known at the start of March and received 219 responses to its invitation for comments. It is planned to have a full public consultation in the third quarter of this year, with a view to having the policy in place through a directive by the middle of next year.

This is a recognition by the EU that non-EU countries are not as invested in climate and labour rights which is also included.

Mercosur

The Mercosur trade deal has included commitment to implementing the Paris accord, including regeneration of the Amazon rainforest.