On 15 January 2013, the EU introduced a stabilisation mechanism for bananas (HS code 08030019) originating in Colombia and Peru (Article 15, EU 19/2013).The EU justifies the measure by stating the necessity to protect the growing banana sector and its importance for many outermost regions of the EU (Preamble (4), EU 19/2013). In particular, the EU sets a import tariff exemption quota on bananas from Colombia and Peru until 31 December 2019. Once the quota is met, the preferential customs duty for bananas will be suspended temporarily.