Parliamentarians and social partners discuss future of EFTA’s trade policy with EFTA Ministers

The meeting was co-chaired by Ms Trine Lise Sundnes, Vice Chair and Acting Chair of the Parliamentary Committee, and Mr Halldór Oddsson, Chair of the Consultative Committee.

Against the backdrop of geopolitical challenges, the exchange with the Ministers focused on the future of EFTA’s trade policy and how the EFTA countries were adapting to the global environment. In this context, participants discussed the prospects for concluding new free trade agreements (FTAs) and modernising existing ones, and the possibility of negotiating sector-specific deals with like-minded partners.

In her introduction, Ms Sundnes reflected on global affairs, underlining the gradual shifts in international relations and trade policy over the years. She pointed at the bigger picture, highlighting that “we are in the midst of a long-term transformation – we need to be thinking strategically about how we adapt and navigate this new global landscape”.

Ms Cecilie Myrseth, Minister of Trade and Industry and Ministerial Chair of the EFTA Council, referenced the usefulness of the regular meetings between the committees and the Ministers. “We greatly value the insight and input of our advisory bodies and the exchanges on EFTA’s third-country activities,” said Minister Myrseth.

Referring to the Consultative Committee’s Opinion entitled Trade in a changing geopolitical environment, Mr Oddsson stressed the importance of maintaining a strong and reliable multilateral system. “Rules-based trade is the backbone of our economic integration, and as small and open economies, we are exposed when trust in – and commitment to – the system decline.”

The Ministers and committees agreed to continue these joint strategic and overarching discussions in their next meeting, which will take place in Iceland in 2026.

Meeting with Malaysian Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry

The committees also had the opportunity to exchange views with Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, H.E. Tengku Zafrul Aziz, following the signing of the EFTA–Malaysia Economic Partnership Agreement (MEEPA). They expressed support for the agreement and reiterated EFTA’s commitment to expanding its trade relations with important partners like Malaysia.

Earlier in the year, a delegation from the EFTA Parliamentary Committee undertook a working visit to Sarawak and Kuala Lumpur in April 2025 to strengthen parliamentary ties following the conclusion of the MEEPA. The exchange with the Minister was therefore an excellent opportunity to continue the discussion on the next steps in the ratification process.

“The agreement, which was concluded after many years of negotiations, brings our trade and investment partnership to the next level”, said Ms Sundnes. “It will play a key part in diversifying our global trade in view of the current geopolitical turbulence.”

Minister Zafrul noted the importance of the agreement, highlighting that “the MEEPA will provide predictability – providing new opportunities for citizens and businesses in our countries”.

Taking stock of current and future issues

During their internal meeting, members engaged with the academic community on wider trade developments and transatlantic relations. Professor Marc Lanteigne from the Arctic University briefed the committees on political and economic developments in East Asia, particularly China’s trade sector.

The setting for the meeting in Tromsø also provided an opportunity for reflection on Arctic cooperation and geopolitical tensions in the region. In addition, Professor Erik Jones from the European University Institute gave a briefing on the US administration’s trade policy and relations between Europe and the US – topics of interest to both committees.

Bringing EFTA closer to the lives of citizens

The EFTA Parliamentary Committee and EFTA Consultative Committee have an important advisory role within the organisation. The mission of both committees is to scrutinise and advise on EFTA trade relations with third countries, as well as on relations with the European Union through the implementation of the EEA Agreement. They are vital platforms for dialogue and consultation on social, economic and political aspects of EFTA FTAs, and the functioning of the European Economic Area. Hear the reflections of the Co-chairs on the meetings and the role of the committees:

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