Covid-19 vaccines: Europe tightens export criteria in bid to secure more doses

Tighter European Commission criteria on exports of covid-19 vaccines from the 27 member bloc came into force Friday 26 March, despite strong opposition. The new rules introduce two hurdles reciprocity and proportionality. Exports to a country could be blocked if it restricts its own exports, either by law or contractual arrangements, vaccine rates supplies are better than Union’s. The commission has repeatedly denied that is planning an export ban targeting UK. It does acknowledge, however, “the mechanism gives us certain leverage in negotiations with global producers.” The move aims increase four approved for EU tackle slow rollout. …