Caribbean News

Dominica to Sign EU Trade Agreement Despite Opposition From Other Caribbean Leaders

By DWNews Editor ⋅ September 4, 2008 ⋅  Print This Post ⋅ Post a comment

Associated Press - Sept 4, 2008

ROSEAU, Dominica: Dominica says it will sign a trade agreement with the European Union despite opposition from other Caribbean leaders.

Trade Minister Colin McIntyre says the tiny Caribbean island cannot afford to reject the agreement because that might mean higher tariffs on its exports. Countries including Guyana and St. Lucia are opposed to the Economic Partnership Agreement that would eliminate import duties and quotas. They say smaller islands would be inundated with cheap products from Europe. Leaders plan to meet Wednesday to talk about the pact.

The EU says the pact would help increase food production by boosting agricultural trade.

Tags: Caribbean, Dominica, Economic Partnership Agreement, EU, European Union, Guyana, Roseau, World Trade Organization