Main headlines from this issue

Barnier given an easy ride as he lays down the law on European offsets

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Michel Barnier the European Commissioner for Internal Marketstold a high level conference on ‘Defence and Security Industries and Markets’ that the EC should ban the “abusive and completely discretionary” use of Article 346 to demand offsets.

U.S. Dept. of Commerce examines the EC Directive, finds ‘security of supply’ conditions “remarkable”

The briefing paper considers “the real risks to business” under the new Directive.

Philippines: outbreak of tenders wanting countertrade puts PITC back in the game

The Philippine International Trading Corporation (PITC) has resuscitated its countertrade policy and introduced obligations into some military and penal procurement tenders.

Malaysia calls for regional engagement in offset programs – barbed reminder to Indonesia on countertrade agreements

Greece: indictment as witnesses shun and dissemble at submarine inquiry

The parliamentary committee investigating the purchase of four German submarines by the Greek Navy a decade ago issued a unanimous decision for the ex-minister to be indicted on criminal charges of bribe taking and money laundering.