Get involved > Campaign > Stop EPAs > What is the difference between 'Interim' and 'Full' EPAs?
What is the difference between 'Interim' and 'Full' EPAs?
'Interim' EPAs cover the liberalisation of goods (agricultural or manufactured products).
'Full EPAs' include goods, services, and investment (anything from banking, water services and construction).
Europe has always wanted ACP countries to open up their markets not only to European goods but also to its service providers and investors.
Europe insists that no EPA can be a 'Full' EPA, unless it contains commitments to further liberalise in these areas – but many ACP countries disagree with this approach[1], because of the genuine risks to their economies[2].
[1] for example African Union statement (2006)
[2] For more information on the problems with including 'investment' provisions in an EPA, see Christian Aid paper, 'EPAs and Investment'
