Internal document shows Europe boasting of gains in Canada free-trade deal

OTTAWA – The European Union says in an internal analysis that it gained more than it expected in the recently completed trade agreement with Canada.

A document obtained by The Canadian Press reveals EU exporters expect to make large inroads into the Canadian market.

The Europeans cited bidding on government contracts, as well as shipments of cheese, wine and spirits, as areas of negotiating victories.

The Europeans also persuaded Canada to adopt geographical indicators to market their goods, including Gorgonzola and Feta cheeses, another issue hailed as a huge advance.

The EU says those gains can be used to their advantage in future trade negotiations, including talks just begun with the United States.

The EU analysis is similar to claims made by Canadian officials and government ministers, but is unique in claiming to have won concessions beyond Europe’s expectations.