The Design of Clean Trade and Investment Partnerships

The European Commission's Clean Industrial Deal Strategy marks a shift in the EU's Green Deal by emphasising green value chains and removing barriers to climate-friendly investments. It aims to enhance the global competitiveness of European industry, especially against major players like China, through partnerships and strategic use of the EU's regulatory and technological strengths. The strategy does not aim for self-sufficiency due to high energy costs and resource scarcity, but instead promotes cooperation with third countries. Clean Trade and Investment Partnerships are central to this approach, targeting secure supply chains, joint investments and fair market competition. These partnerships will leverage initiatives like the Global Gateway to strengthen Europe's role in global green markets, though their success remains uncertain amid global competition.