The present article discusses the collaboration between the Maghreb countries (the region is defined in broad terms, including the member states of the Union Arab Maghreb - Algieria, Libya, Morocco, Mauritania and Tunisia) and the European Union in terms of economic development. Of essential importance is the year 1995, when the countries signed the Barcelona Declaration. One of its priorities was "(…) the creation of a free trade area, the aim of which is the gradual elimination of customs barriers (tariff and non-tariff) in relation to the trade of manufactured products. Partners also provide for progressive liberalization of trade in agricultural products and services (…)". The Union for the Mediterranean and the European Neighbourhood Policy evolved gradually. The article examines bilateral documents (in particular in terms of financial assistance) and economic indicators such as the Index of Economic Freedom.