The effects of the Lisbon Treaty on the principles and objectives of the Common Commercial Policy

Abstract

The Lisbon Treaty brings significant changes to the orientation of the Common Commercial Policy (CCP), affecting the principles and objectives that guide the exercise of EU competence in this field. Building upon the EC Treaty (TEC), it strengthens the role of uniformity and the commitment of the EU towards gradual liberalization, incorporating in fact a standstill obligation of the EU to retain the existing level of liberalization. More importantly, the Lisbon Treaty signals the integration of the CCP into EU external relations, providing common objectives and principles that allow for a re-evaluation of the objective of liberalization and the pursuance of other trade and non-trade goals, guaranteeing at the same time unity and consistency in the exercise of Union powers.