Digital Trade Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Singapore

PURPOSE: to conclude, on behalf of the Union, the Agreement on Digital Trade between the European Union and the Republic of Singapore.

PROPOSED ACT: Decision of the Council.

ROLE OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT: Council may adopt the act only if Parliament has given its consent to the act.

BACKGROUND: the Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Singapore on Digital Trade was signed subject to its conclusion at a later date. It is now appropriate to approve the Agreement on behalf of the European Union.

CONTENT: the draft Council decision concerns the approval, on behalf of the Union, of the Agreement on digital trade between the European Union and the Republic of Singapore.

The Agreement aims to facilitate digital trade in goods and services between the Parties. It gives effect to the trade provisions of the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) and, together with the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), establishes the EU-Singapore Free Trade Area.

The Agreement is a modern, self-standing Agreement with ambitious and binding commitments on digital trade between the EU and Singapore. These commitments range from commitments on cross-border data flows and online consumer protection to commitments on software source code protection.

The Agreement also includes provisions on the protection of personal data. The Parties recognise that individuals have the right to privacy and the protection of personal data, and that high and enforceable standards in this regard contribute to trust in the digital economy and the development of trade. Each Party shall adopt or maintain a legal framework providing for the protection of individuals' personal data. This legal framework must ensure non-discriminatory protection of the personal data of natural persons.