Malta has secured an agreement amongst European Union Member States on a new European methodology on anti-dumping, as part of its Trade Defence Instruments.

This new methodology was endorsed by all EU Trade Ministers at the Foreign Affairs Council on Trade held in Brussels, and presided by Minister for the Economy, Investment and Small Businesses Dr. Chris Cardona.  Trade Ministers described today's achievement as a milestone, and Italian Secretary of State Ivan Scalfarotto congratulated the Maltese Presidency for its hard work, and its efforts in facilitating negotiations and discussions leading to today's achievements and results on this subject.

European Commissioner for Trade Cecilia Malmström stated that the Maltese Presidency has done formidable work in finding a positive compromise on this file.

Addressing a press conference together with Commissioner Malmström following the Council meeting, Minister Cardona stated that "the position of the Council on the new anti-dumping methodology is designed to ensure that our businesses are not subject to unfair practices and market distortions in third countries, while at the same time ensuring that it is non-discriminatory and WTO compatible."

Minister Cardona further added that the new anti-dumping methodology is a clear and unequivocal answer to European citizens' concerns on the effects of globalisation.

The new methodology for the calculation of dumping reforms the way normal value for price- comparison purposes is determined for World Trade Organisation members. This approach is country-neutral, and tackles the offence of significant market distortions, whoever the offender may be.

Ministers called for the quick conclusion of the legislative process with the European Parliament.

The Maltese Presidency of the Council of the European Union is also expediting work on the pending Free Trade Agreements, notably with Japan and Mexico. Ministers exchanged views on possible areas for improvement in terms of national practices, cooperation between the Commission and Member States, and EU coordinated actions.