TITLE VII ( * )

( * ) New Title as inserted by Article G( 26 ) TEU, replacing Chapter 4 of Title II,  Articles 110 to 116.

Common commercial policy

Article 110

By establishing a customs union between themselves Member States aim to  contribute, in the common interest, to the harmonious development of world trade,  the progressive abolition of restrictions on international trade and the lowering of  customs barriers.

The common commercial policy shall take into account the favourable effect which  the abolition of customs duties between Member States may have on the increase in  the competitive strength of undertakings in those States.

Article 111

( Repealed )

Article 112

1. Without prejudice to obligations undertaken by them within the framework of  other international organizations, Member States shall, before the end of the  transitional period, progressively harmonize the systems whereby they grant aid for  exports to third countries, to the extent necessary to ensure that competition between  undertakings of the Community is not distorted:

On a proposal from the Commission, the Council shall, acting unanimously until the  end of the second stage and by a qualified majority thereafter, issue any directives  needed for this purpose.

2. The preceding provisions shall not apply to such a drawback of customs duties or  charges having equivalent effect nor to such a repayment of indirect taxation  including turnover taxes, excise duties and other indirect taxes as is allowed when  goods are exported from a Member State to a third country, in so far as such a  drawback or repayment does not exceed the amount imposed, directly or indirectly,  on the products exported.

Article 113 ( * )

( * ) As amended by Article G( 28 ) TEU.

1. The common commercial policy shall be based on uniform principles, particularly  in regard to changes in tariff rates, the conclusion of tariff and trade agreements, the

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