The world of textiles is undergoing a shift as Cambodia, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, which were once least developed, experience changes in their trade patterns. The “Moving the Needle” Webinar on “Trade Impacts Assessment of GSP and GSP+” delved into the changing trade dynamics of these three Asian nations.

Cambodia, once a Least Developed Country (LDC), met graduation criteria in 2021 and is poised to potentially graduate in 2027, impacting its preferential trade agreement, the Everything But Arms (EBA). Bangladesh, another LDC, has heavily utilized the EBA for duty-free exports to the EU, particularly in the booming garment industry, and is preparing for graduation by 2026. Meanwhile, Pakistan, although not an LDC, has successfully leveraged the GSP+ status with the EU, offering valuable lessons in trade preferences and compliance.

In this Webinar, International Economics Consulting Ltd’s CEO, Paul Baker highlighted Cambodia’s options in light of LDC graduation and the loss of preferences under the Everything but Arms (EBA) scheme; Dr. Mohammad Razzaque discussed Bangladesh’s preparation for the conclusion of EBA privileges; and Sarah Javaid described Pakistan’s experience in securing GSP+ status.

The Webinar can be accessed on this link.