As many as 41% of Finnish companies have experienced trade barriers in their international operations in recent years. Most of the examined trade barriers between 2019 and 2022 occurred in countries outside the EU, especially in Russia, the United States and China. However, according to a study conducted by ETLA Economic Research for the Finnish Government, companies also encountered trade barriers in the EU. Companies engaged in international trade still face various trade barriers, that is, regulations or practices by authorities that make it difficult for services and products to enter the market. Trade barriers include customs duties, import restrictions and subsidies directed only at domestic operators. However, not all trade barriers are detrimental to society – they can also contribute to the safety of products for people and the environment. According to the study, as many as 41% of Finnish companies engaged in international trade encountered trade barriers between 2019 and 2022. The vast majority of the barriers occurred in countries outside the EU, especially Russia and China. However, significantly more trade barriers than before were also encountered in the Unites States. In 2021, approximately half of Finland’s total exports were directed outside the EU area. Russian invasion of Ukraine and the …read more Source::...