A delegation from Uzbekistan's Ministry of Investments, Industry, and Trade (MIIT) participated for the first time in the European Union working group meeting on the implementation of the Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+). The event took place on December 4–5 in Brussels, reports Gazeta.uz.
The Uzbek side presented the results achieved under GSP+ since obtaining beneficiary status in 2021. During this period, exports to the EU nearly tripled, reaching $1.15 billion. Stable supplies of over 1,100 product categories, including agricultural products, textiles, electrical equipment, and chemicals, out of the 6,200 available, were established.
The Uzbek delegation proposed expanding the list of products eligible for GSP+ duty-free export benefits by adding fresh fruit and vegetable products. They also requested that the EU revise seasonal export quotas by extending timeframes to ensure supply stability and enhance the competitiveness of Uzbek goods in the EU market.
Additionally, MIIT representatives suggested extending the preferential GSP+ regime for an additional 10 years (currently valid until December 31, 2027) to maintain achieved results and create conditions for long-term economic ties with the European Union.
During meetings with heads of European Commission departments for trade and international cooperation, discussions focused on improving market access conditions for Uzbek goods in the EU. This included revising import quotas for rolled metal products and seeking technical support from the EU to adapt Uzbek products to European standards.
GSP+ is an enhanced version of the Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) provided by the European Union. It is a trade mechanism aimed at promoting sustainable development and reducing poverty in developing countries by facilitating their goods' access to the EU market.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
December 10, 2024