Pakistan Faces EU Human Rights Review of GSP+ Trade Benefits

The European Union has issued a formal warning that Pakistan’s continued eligibility for the Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) – a duty‑free trade regime that has more than doubled its textile exports to Europe – is now contingent on measurable improvements in human‑rights standards. The EU Commission’s final monitoring report for the 2023‑2025 period cites repression of political opposition, restrictions on freedom of expression, enforced disappearances, civilian trials in military courts and concerns over prison and capital‑punishment reforms. Under the new framework that takes effect on 1 January 2027, Pakistan must reapply for GSP+ status, submit a written action plan and obtain EU approval by the end of 2028, with the monitoring body assessing compliance with 27 international conventions on human rights, labour, environment and good governance. Failure to demonstrate progress could jeopardise the preferential market access that is a vital economic lifeline for Pakistan’s apparel, home‑textile and surgical‑instrument sectors.