Pakistan Urges EU to Keep New GSP Plus Framework Fair

Pakistan has called on the European Union to ensure that the upcoming GSP Plus framework remains development-focused and fair, stressing that recent decisions such as the withdrawal of tariff preferences on ethanol have already hurt farmers and exporters. The appeal was made during a meeting in Islamabad on Friday between Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and the visiting European Commission Monitoring Mission, led by Sergio Balibrea of the GSP Plus Directorate. EU Ambassador Raimundas Karoblis also attended. During the meeting, the minister said the EU continues to serve as Pakistan’s largest export destination and noted that GSP Plus has supported employment, women’s empowerment, and sustainable development across the country. He expressed confidence that Pakistan’s progress on the 27 required international conventions would be recognized in the upcoming fifth Biennial Review. Officials said Islamabad urged Brussels to avoid adding excessive conditions in the new GSP Plus structure, saying the facility must remain true to its development purpose. The minister also raised serious concerns over the EU’s recent withdrawal of ethanol preferences, calling it a setback for rural livelihoods as ethanol was Pakistan’s largest non-textile export under the scheme. Another key issue highlighted was the ongoing Geographical Indication case for Basmati rice. Pakistan asked the EU to ensure complete impartiality as both Pakistan and India await a decision. The minister further requested GI consideration for products such as Sindhi Ajrak, Pink Salt and Mangoes. The delegation and Pakistani officials also discussed broader trade cooperation and the need for a stable, predictable GSP Plus partnership. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Pakistan-EU economic ties.