GSP+ trade preferences for Pakistan
18.1.2017
Question for written answer E-000259-17
to the Commission
Rule 130
Ignazio Corrao (EFDD)
Pakistan is a major beneficiary of the trading opportunities offered by the EU Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP). Under the so-called GSP+ arrangement, Pakistan benefits from generous tariff preferences, which means that more than 76% of Pakistan’s exports, including textiles and clothing, enter the EU duty‐ and quota-free. This represents almost 20% of Pakistan’s global exports.
In order to maintain GSP+ status, Pakistan has to maintain ratification and effectively implement 27 core international conventions on human and labour rights, environmental protection and good governance. However, Pakistan’s human rights record is very poor and shows no sign of improvement.
In light of this situation:
- —How does the Commission assess the fact that enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings and torture take place with impunity in Pakistan?
- —Does the Commission intend to raise the issue of persecution of religious minorities, fostered in part by ‘blasphemy laws’, with the Pakistani Government?
- —Is the Commission considering suspending Pakistan’s GSP+ trade preferences until the country fulfils its human rights obligations and effectively implements the agreed 27 core international conventions?