This paper analyzes some of the potential economic effects of free tra
de agreements between the EU and Russia and the other European CIS cou
ntries using standard indicators of trade patterns. It confirms that i
t would not be feasible for the EU to conclude such an agreement with
Russia alone. It is also shown that, if the current high tariff levels
are maintained in the CIS countries, they may not benefit from an agr
eement with the EU. More generally, the authors question the economic
motivation for countries such as Russia in seeking free trade agreemen
ts with industrial countries which already have low levels of external
protection.