Procurement liberalization diffusion in EU agreements: Signalling stewardship?

The European Union (EU) has concluded bilateral trade agreements with Korea, Latin America, Central America and CARIFORUM states. Using the example of procurement liberalization commitments undertaken by the EU and partner countries, this article analyses how conformity between bilateral agreements and the WTO plurilateral Government Procurement Agreement is likely to promote competition and transparency, and be a stepping stone to future multilateral liberalization. It argues that liberalization through bilateral agreements will first, promote and reinforce EU's prominence in shaping future multilateral liberalization; second, fulfil EU's aspiration of playing a leading role in defining the map of 'global governance' for future multilateral liberalization.