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EU launches export help service for developing countries

Brussels 4 February 2005

The EU today launched an improved and multilingual version of its on-line Expanding Exports 
Helpdesk, intended to help developing country producers seeking to export to EU markets. The new 
Expanding Exports Helpdesk service includes new on-line features and key services are now available in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese. There is a new 'Market Place' service to facilitate deals 
between traders and an enlarged database of trade statistics. Work on the second phase of the 
system, which will widen the range of information to cover product specific import requirements and 
internal taxation in the Member States is continuing, and should be completed during the first half 
of 2005.

EU Trade Commissioner Peter Mandelson said: "This is another concrete measure to help developing 
countries export to the EU. The EU is commited to taking these kinds of practical steps, in a world 
where non-tariff barriers are really the main remaining barrier to our markets for the poorest 
countries. I am glad to say that there are even more new features on this Helpdesk to come during 
2005."

The service can be accessed at http://export-help.cec.eu.int 

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