The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the European Union (EU) is a free trade agreement that aims to strengthen economic and political ties between the two regions. CETA has been in force since September 2017, and it is considered one of the most comprehensive trade agreements ever negotiated.

One of the key aspects of CETA is the Canada style agreement, which refers to a set of rules and regulations that govern the trade relationship between Canada and the EU. The agreement covers a wide range of trade-related issues, including tariffs, customs procedures, and intellectual property rights. Its main objective is to eliminate barriers to trade and facilitate the exchange of goods and services between Canada and the EU.

One of the most important elements of the Canada style agreement is the elimination or reduction of tariffs on goods traded between Canada and the EU. Under CETA, most tariffs on goods traded between the two regions have been eliminated or phased out over a period of several years. For example, Canadian exporters of agricultural products, such as beef, pork, and cheese, now have greater access to the EU market, while EU exporters of industrial goods such as machinery and chemicals have benefited from increased access to the Canadian market.

Another key feature of the Canada style agreement is the mutual recognition of professional qualifications. This means that professionals in certain fields, such as engineering, architecture, and accounting, can work in both Canada and the EU without having to go through lengthy and costly certification processes. This provision has been particularly beneficial for small and medium-sized enterprises that may not have the resources to navigate complex certification requirements.

CETA also includes provisions related to the protection of intellectual property rights. This includes the recognition and protection of trademarks, patents, and copyrights, and the establishment of a dedicated dispute resolution mechanism to handle intellectual property disputes between Canada and the EU.

Overall, the Canada style agreement has been beneficial for both Canada and the EU. It has facilitated greater trade and investment between the two regions, and has created new opportunities for businesses on both sides of the Atlantic. While there are still some challenges to be addressed, such as issues related to regulatory cooperation and the protection of labor and environmental standards, the Canada style agreement represents a significant step forward in the deepening of economic ties between Canada and the EU.