Bosch’s aftermarket division is highlighting the importance of open markets as the debate surrounding Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) between the European Union (EU) and major trading blocks such as those in the Far East and the US, continues.

Speaking to just-auto on the sidelines of last week’s European automotive supplier body, CLEPA’s fifth Aftermarket Conference, Bosch president, automotive aftermarket, Uwe Thomas, outlined his thoughts surrounding the FTAs.

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“Since he [Robert Bosch] founded the company, this is part of our DNA,” he said. “There is no criticism of existing agreements. “We fight hard, very tough, very clear, that the world goes for open markets in all directions.

“Whenever we see non-tarrif barriers are going to be expanded…we would like to start a discussion to find a better way. It is not that we are fighting against a country – we fight for an idea that creates jobs and wealth.”

CLEPA CEO, Jean-Marc Gales, also stressed the need to globalise, but warned FTAs had to be closely evaluated and highlighted the current discussions with Japan concerning non-tariff barriers.

The CLEPA chief equally highlighted the importance of the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) talks between the EU and the US – a deal which if it saw the light of day could potentially create the world’s largest free trade zone.

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Such an agreement could see harmonised standards between the two giant blocks – a move that could prove hugely beneficial financially.

“We would like to express to all members of CLEPA, we support all initiatives with free trade,” Bosch political relations and lobby work representative, Matthias Knirsch told just-auto.

“We are a strong member of CLEPA and a team member of CLEPA.”