What’s at Stake in Global Trade Debates on Water?

• European water companies target the United States as an important market. European multinationals dominate the private water services market, with over $25 billion per year in revenue.
• U.S. municipal services represent a $82 billion market.  Government spending to construct and upgrade drinking water and sewage infrastructure is estimated to cost between $500 billion and $1 trillion over the next 20 years.
• Most U.S. drinking water systems are in public hands. Municipal systems serving serve 85% of the U.S. population. European companies want access to U.S. markets for supply and water treatment services.

This section looks at water as a good and a service; describes important investment disputes involving water; and surveys state/local action to safeguard public water.