that country. The rising critique against the clause and the TTIP in general has forced Malmström into a difficult position, as the US is unlikely to sign without the clause in the documents. However, recently the EP discussed new ideas, alternatives, or updates for the clause, indicating Malmström is indeed listening and adapting to the concerns of European citizens. This also means negotiations, which have until now almost completely avoided the subject of ISDS due to its sensitive nature, will take a new turn and possibly finally generate some action; enforcement of the TTIP, in a new form. So what consequences will the TTIP have, in any form, for you, both as a consumer and as a graduate (to be)?
As a consumer
Companies will have lower tariffs or other additional costs for products to deal with and this will translate into lower prices that the consumer can benefit from. Also, the variety of supply of goods will increase, and the enormous competitive free market will make sure only the best products and services survive, increasing overall quality. As Malmström also promises, the standards of both partners for products, especially food, will be maintained. TTIP should only make it easier for companies in the EU and US to do business but will not interfere with existing quality assurance regulations.
As a graduate (to be)
The agreement protagonists promise new job opportunities as well as overall increased wages for both high- and low-skilled workers. For example, as the EU expects the motor industry to increase by almost 150%, companies like Volvo might be expanding their operations in Sweden, the US, and/or China. A downside could be that, perhaps especially as a highly educated graduate, you will be competing with even more skilled people than before. Both parties are eager to enter this agreement while both also have their reservations on specific aspects of it. Once the negotiations lead to some tweaking and turning of the details, we might soon be thriving in and benefiting from the largest free trade zone in the world.
Text: Linnéa Elfving Nådiga Lundtan | 11