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Cobden-Chevalier Treaty

France-United Kingdom [1860]
Also known as: Anglo-French Treaty

Quick Summary

The Cobden-Chevalier Treaty, signed in 1860, was a landmark free trade agreement between France and the United Kingdom. Negotiated primarily by British politician Richard Cobden, the treaty aimed to reduce tariffs and promote economic cooperation between the two nations.

Key provisions included:
* France agreed to lower its protective duties on British goods to a maximum of 25 percent over five years.
* Britain granted free entry to most French products, with the exception of wines.

This treaty represented a significant victory for liberal economic principles, challenging the prevailing mercantilist policies of the time and influencing subsequent European trade agreements.12

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