In an earlier post, we described the eligibility criteria and benefits of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program, which provides duty-free access for about 5,000 products from eligible developing countries. The program is reviewed annually, as a result of which products and/or countries may be added to or removed from the program.

The results of the 2012 review were recently announced.

Most notably, Bangladesh has been suspended from the program. The country had been under review for the past few years because of United States concern over workplace standards in Bangladesh. Recent tragedies in the garment industry have highlighted the lack of progress in this area and led to the decision to suspend.

Ecuador may also have removed itself from the program.

Meanwhile, the program is still set to lapse on July 31, 2013. You can follow the campaign to get legislation passed to renew GSP before this happens!

Andrea

Andrea