Explainers

The EU customs union creates a single tariff area for all goods imported from outside the EU, allowing the goods to move freely between member states without customs.

The EU is reforming its customs union to make procedures more efficient, strengthen security measures and improve risk management across member states.

The European Union is the world’s largest trade bloc in terms of goods and services combined, accounting in 2024 for an estimated 15.8% of world trade.

EU relations with Armenia are based on the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement, in force since 2021. The EU is a key partner for Armenia’s reform agenda and the country’s largest donor.

The EU is Ukraine's largest trading partner and its largest investor. Since the start of Russia's war of aggression, the EU has supported Ukraine's economy, including through targeted trade measures.

Organic farming produces food by means of natural methods that have a limited environmental impact. The EU wants 25% of its farmland to be organic by 2030 and has clear rules to support that goal.

The competitiveness compass provides a plan to allow Europe to regain its economic growth and prosperity.

Following Brexit, the EU and the UK negotiated a set of agreements to guide and govern the future EU-UK relationship. These agreements protect citizens' rights while ensuring fair competition and continued cooperation.

The Republic of Moldova applied for EU membership in March 2022 and was granted candidate status in June 2022. Accession negotiations were formally opened in June 2024. The EU and Moldova also cooperate in the context of the Eastern Partnership.

The EU and its member states stand united in their unwavering support for Ukraine. Accession negotiations with Ukraine were formally opened in June 2024. The EU and Ukraine also cooperate within the Eastern Partnership.