Originen
Generalized System of Preferences (GSP)
Unilateral EU regime granting tariff reductions to developing countries to promote their economic growth.
Generalized System of Preferences (GSP / GSP)
GSP is a unilateral trade regime through which the European Union grants reductions or exemptions from import customs duties for products originating in developing countries.
The three SPG regimes
- Standard GSP: reduction of customs duties for around 66 developing countries
- GSP+: greater reductions for vulnerable countries that ratify and apply 27 international conventions (human rights, labor law, environment, good governance)
- TSA (Everything Except Arms / EBA): total duty and quota free for all products (except arms) from least developed countries (LDCs)
Beneficiary countries
The main beneficiaries of the GSP are Bangladesh, Cambodia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bolivia and the Philippines. The list is revised regularly.
GSP rules of origin
GSP-specific rules of origin are defined in Delegated Regulation (EU) 2015/2446. The proof of origin is the REX certificate of origin (formerly Form A).
Graduation
A country or sector can be “graduated” (excluded from GSP) if its exports to the EU become too competitive.