Utilization of Free Trade Agreements within the Tampere Region : Study and Future Opportunities

The purpose of this thesis was to research the utilization rates of the European Union’s free-trade agreements, specifically within companies operating in the Tampere region. This work also aimed to measure the companies’ understanding of the agreements, their contents and their benefits, as well as the minimum requirements of utilizing them. Methods used in this thesis included mapping and analyzing current information sources on free trade agreements as a crucial part of the utilization process. In addition, a survey was deployed for exporting companies in the region to collect data on how they understand, utilize and reap the benefits from EU’s free-trade agreements. The survey also asked companies to rate the availability, clarity and visibility of information sources on free trade agreements. Further observations were made based on suggestions and wishes collected from these companies. The findings indicate that while some companies in the region utilize free trade agreements well, the majority are still feeling uncertainty and yearning for better information flow and delivery. The companies would like to receive better education, regular up-dates and new tools to help them master the benefits of free trade. With these conclusions from the research, new opportunities were highlighted for Tampere Chamber of Commerce as a provider of information and a potential future educator on the subject