Pakistan’s GSP+ Status At Risk: EU Ambassador

Wednesday, 19 November 2025 | Web Desk

The European Union’s new Ambassador to Pakistan, Raimonds Karoblis, has issued an important statement regarding Pakistan. He warns that if there is no progress on human rights, Pakistan’s GSP+ trade concessions could be at risk.

In an interview with Geo News, Raimonds Karoblis said that enforced disappearances will be a top concern in the upcoming GSP+ monitoring. He expressed alarm over the rising number of blasphemy cases in Pakistan, stating that false accusations and the “blasphemy business” must come to an end. He added that restrictions on freedom of expression and shrinking media space are clearly visible.

The EU Ambassador further said that while the European Union recognizes Pakistan’s parliament and government, reforms are still essential. He noted that the constitutional amendment is Pakistan’s internal matter, and the decision regarding the release of the founder of PTI lies solely with the courts. Political diversity and judicial independence, he stressed, are fundamental principles.

He also stated that Pakistan’s concerns regarding the banned TTP are legitimate, and the demand that Afghan soil not be used for terrorism is fully justified. He emphasized that Pakistan–Afghanistan dialogue should continue with Türkiye’s mediation.

Pak Afghan Transit Trade Curb will Benefit Pakistan

According to him, the European Union provided nearly 1 billion euros in assistance after Pakistan’s 2022 floods, and climate cooperation will remain a top priority in the future.

What is GSP+ Status?

GSP+ (Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus) is a special trade scheme introduced by the European Union to offer tariff concessions to developing countries. Pakistan received this status on 1 January 2014. To qualify, beneficiary countries must implement 27 internationally recognized conventions, including those on human rights, labor rights, environmental protection, and good governance.

Under GSP+, Pakistan enjoys duty-free or reduced-duty access to over 66% of EU tariff lines. This facility has significantly boosted Pakistan’s exports to Europe since 2014. Products such as textiles, bed linen, hosiery, leather goods, sports equipment, and surgical instruments enter the European market at more competitive prices due to these concessions.

This trade benefit has also encouraged investment, supported the growth of Pakistan’s export sector, and created employment opportunities. The EU conducts regular monitoring, and Pakistan must maintain progress in human rights and governance to retain the status.

In summary, GSP+ provides Pakistan with affordable access to the European market and helps strengthen its export-driven industries.