A Commission background note sets out what the EU expects from the ACP in terms of market access and how it expects to handle negotiations around access to the EU market. It highlights the need for trade defence measures and the possibilities of customising these for each ACP region. While favouring similar rules of origin for all ACP regions so as to facilitate the later consolidation of regional agreements into broader agreements, the Commission expresses an openness to crafting rules of origin according to the specific needs of each ACP region. The note also outlines in summary form the likely scope of negotiations on trade in services and trade facilitation.
 The note recognises that ACP countries will face 'difficult economic and social restructuring' as a result of moves towards free trade with the EU but expresses the view that this should not allow ACP countries to defer much needed reforms which will enhance their competitiveness. The note recognises the need for appropriate EU support measures but believes that these should be funded from existing EDF resources.