EU to release report on GSP+ status next year

Review of 27 conventions will decide whether country gets preferential trade deal

ISLAMABAD: European Union will issue a third review report on how Pakistan is in line with 27 International Conventions of GSP + or not in the beginning of year 2020.

Pakistani exports to EU member countries increased by 55% since 2014 thanks to this preferential trade concession status and if Pakistan makes positive progress in the implementations of these conventions, more opportunities of trade and exports are waiting for its business community.

This was stated by EU Ambassador Jean-Francois Cautain in a Meet the Press arranged by Council of Pakistan Newspapers Editors (CPNE) Islamabad Chapter at National Press Club.  Daily Ittehad Editor Tahir Farooq introduced CPNE members to the ambassador.

Pakistan’s GSP Plus status in jeopardy

Cautain visited the memorial of martyred journalists in the line of duty and planted a sapling to pay homage to them.

Tazeen Akhtar said: “we can see more achievements than some challenges like FATF and abolition of death penalty.”

He appreciated Ambassador Cautain for hosting three consecutive Euro Village Festivals in Islamabad from 2017 to 2019 which were strong message to the world that Pakistan is a safe and secure country.

Ambassador said EU is importing mainly textile, leather items, foot wear, sportswear and surgical instruments from Pakistan. In return Pakistan is supposed to properly implement all 27 international conventions attached to GSP +.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 19^th, 2019.