- On 21 September 2017, the C.E.T.A. came into force albeit provisionally. (Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement), the free trade agreement signed on 30 October 2016 between the Member States of the European Union and Canada.
- Among the effects of the C.E.T.A. the abolition by Canada of 98% of customs duties on goods originating in the European Union.
- The agreement also provides for the mutual recognition of certification for a wide range of products.
- A Parma ham will finally be able to be sold in Canada under its own brand. And in fact the Canadian company Maple Leaf Foods Inc., the largest Canadian food industry, had registered the "Parma" brand in Canada. This meant that the historic Italian brand of excellence was unable to market its products using the well-known brand. To still be present on that important market, the Italian product was sold with the name "Original Ham", and on the shelves of the shops it was found next to the Canadian "Parma", without being able to bear its real name.
- The provisions of the C.E.T.A. will allow companies from EU countries to participate in public tenders in Canada, including those for the supply of goods and services, not only at a federal level, but also at a local level.
- It is established by the C.E.T.A. the mutual recognition of professional titles including that of architect, engineer and accountant.
- New common rules for the protection of copyright and industrial patents.
- Among the innovations introduced by the C.E.T.A. also the establishment of a public court, with a specific procedural system for the protection of investments (ICS).
- The C.E.T.A. although in force on a provisional basis, it must be ratified by EU countries;
Denmark, Latvia, Malta and Spain have already ratified the treaty.
- In Italy, the ratification DDI was approved on 27 June 2017 by the foreign commission of the Senate and will be in the Senate on 26 September 2017.
It will be interesting for Italian companies to follow developments.
Milano, September 22nd 2017.
Avv. Giovanni Babino
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