Services in international trade negotiations

Negotiations with the EU and US are ongoing and these could also include services provisions. EPAs with the EU have the possibility of including services, with special and differential support measures. For Botswana, these negotiations offer threats and opportunities. Threats because opening up some sectors to further service providers may lead to unwelcome effects if the regulatory framework is not in place (though Botswana already tends to be open and non-discriminatory). However, they can also offer opportunities because Botswana can signal openness and attract investment and service providers. Further opportunities relate to better market access abroad for Botswana's services suppliers.