On 13th June the European Parliament (EP) adopted the report (503 for, 107 against, 37 abstentions), drafted by Christofer Fjellner, on behalf of Committee on International Trade (INTA), at the Plenary in Strasbourg.

Report on the proposal for applying a scheme of generalised tariff preferences (COM(2011)0241 – C7-0116/2011 – 2011/0117(COD))

Since 1971 the European Union (EU) has operated a Generalised Scheme of Tariff Preferences (GSP scheme), which grants trade preferences to developing countries as a way of assisting them. The GSP, which is part of the EU's common commercial policy (in accordance with the general provisions governing the EU’s external action) also helps to ensure core human and labour rights, reduce poverty and promote sustainable development and good governance in developing countries. "The current GSP scheme comprises three preferential agreements whereby the EU grants trade benefits reflecting the differing trade, development and financial needs of developing countries in the form of reduced or zero customs tariffs on imports of goods. The proposed GSP Regulation herewith revises, adapts and updates the GSP scheme in replacement of the current regulation, so as to better reflect the contemporary global economic and trade landscape which has changed significantly since the original scheme was put into place." (COM(2011)0241)

One reason why the current scheme, which dates back to 2008, is due for review is that many of the developing countries that have been helped in the past have now integrated successfully into the global market place so are able to stand alone. This draft proposal will focus the GSP preferences on the much poorer countries that genuinely need help. In addition, following the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty, this regulation will be subject to the Ordinary Legislative Procedure.

On 10th May INTA adopted the report, drafted by Christofer Fjellner (18 for, 6 against, 6 abstentions), with recommendations in the following areas:

Duration of the regulation:

General arrangement:

Eligible countries:

Special incentive arrangement for sustainable development and good governance:

Safeguard and surveillance provisions:

Safeguards in the textile, agriculture and fisheries sectors:

Information:

Report:

Annexes:

The Report can be read here

Or alternatively visit the website: http://www.europarl.europa.eu

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