The Commission's Directorate-General for Trade commissioned an external and independent evaluation of the Market Access Database (MADB). This evaluation, carried out by GHK Consulting from February to October 2011, follows up on a previous exercise undertaken in 2006. The purpose of the evaluation was to assess the impact of the MADB as a user-friendly and relevant information tool for European exporters and to consider the financial and human resources committed to its operation. It also provides recommendations for improvements of the service and future orientations.

The stakeholders gave a positive view of the overall quality and usefulness of the MADB. The combining of different pieces of information into one integrated system, makes it unique amongst comparable services, in particular as it is free of charge for European companies. User feedback and a sample-based validation of data confirm that the sections with applied tariffs and the export formalities are deemed very reliable sources of information.

Drawing upon the findings and conclusions of the study, the Commission will undertake an overhaul of some sections of the database to improve its effectiveness.

Read the study
Summary report
Presentation of the evaluation
Annex