EU says GSP+ access not automatic, flags concerns on rights, PECA

Pakistan’s continued access to the European Union’s GSP+ trade scheme is not automatic and depends on further progress on key human rights issues, EU Ambassador Raimundas Karoblis said ahead of the EU-Pakistan Business Forum.

Speaking at a media briefing, the ambassador highlighted concerns related to blasphemy cases, enforced disappearances, minority rights, and the implementation of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).

He said the EU expects Pakistan to make progress on these issues, adding that the use of PECA should not be political in nature.

The ambassador said the EU’s position is based on United Nations conventions to which Pakistan is a signatory, and does not involve imposing new standards or interference in internal affairs.

Despite these concerns, he said the upcoming EU-Pakistan Business Forum, scheduled for April 28–29, is expected to bring together policymakers, business leaders, investors, and financial institutions to explore economic cooperation.

The European Union remains Pakistan’s largest export destination and a major source of foreign direct investment, with both sides seeking to expand ties beyond trade.

The forum will focus on sectors including agri-business, digital innovation and fintech, green logistics, textiles and apparel, and mining, aligned with Pakistan’s economic priorities and the EU’s Global Gateway investment strategy.

Officials said the event aims to promote investment, technology partnerships, and industrial collaboration between the two sides.