Facts & Figures

MAARSSEN, the Netherlands - Improving transparency with a view to enhancing impartiality in proceedings is one of the key issues in the ongoing review of the trade defence instruments. In that framework, the Commission has taken one concrete measure so far. Dominique Avot was appointed Hearing Officer.

Previously, Avot has held several positions in DG External Trade. His appointment still needs to be formalised by a Commission Decision.

Mr. Avot has two major tasks. Firstly, he needs to ensure the respect of the right of all interested parties to be heard. He must make sure all the arguments and facts they present are duly considered. Furthermore he has to make sure that interested parties get access to the files to which they are entitled and he must ensure respect of the rules concerning treatment of confidential information and of business secrets. Secondly, he has to advise the Director General of External Trade on any procedural issue.

Acting upon request

The Hearing Officer has been appointed to optimise the right of defence, of which the right to be heard is a cornerstone. He acts upon the explicit request of any interested party, including third countries concerned, the Commission or a member state. He works independently from the Commission investigation services and he reports to the Director General. A request for his intervention can be submitted as soon as the investigation is initiated or at any stage of the proceedings up to the adoption of the final decision. However, he will only intervene if the request is well substantiated, explaining why his intervention is needed to ensure the party’s right of defence.

The request must be submitted in writing and provide the Hearing Officer with sufficient time to take the necessary actions. He should respond within 3 working days of receipt of the request. His decisions are not binding. If after his intervention, a disagreement remains, he has to report to the Director General. His interventions are not made public.

His contact details are:
Trade Hearing Officer
Rue de la Loi 200
B – 1049 Brussels
Tel: +32 (0)2 296.54.32
Fax: +32 (0)2 292.01.49
Email: Trade Hearing Officer