MIIT continues systematic work to expand exports to European markets

On December 4-5 this year, a meeting of the European Union working group on the implementation of the Generalized System of Preferences GSP+ was held in Brussels, which was attended by 28 EU member states and, for the first time, representatives of the Republic of Uzbekistan represented by the delegation of the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade, the press service of the Ministry reports.

During the meeting, the Uzbek side presented the results of the work carried out within the framework of GSP+ since receiving beneficiary status in 2021. It was noted that exports to the EU during this period increased almost 3-fold, reaching $1.15 billion, while stable exports of over 1,100 product categories were established, including agricultural products, textiles, electrical and chemical products, out of 6,200 available.

Considering the high export potential of the republic, the delegation of Uzbekistan proposed expanding the list of goods eligible for GSP+ benefits by adding fresh fruit and vegetable products, as well as revising seasonal quotas for their export, extending the time frame, which will ensure the sustainability of supplies and competitiveness of products in the EU market.

In addition, representatives of the MIIT proposed extending the preferential GSP+ regime for the next 10 years in order to maintain the achieved results and create conditions for long-term strengthening of economic ties with the European Union.

As part of the visit, the delegation also held meetings with the heads of the European Commission departments for trade and international cooperation.

During the constructive dialogue, issues of improving the conditions for access of Uzbek goods to the EU market were discussed, such as revising import quotas for rolled metal products, as well as attracting technical support from the EU to adapt Uzbek products to European standards.

As noted by both parties, the results of the negotiations became an important step in strengthening trade and economic cooperation and promoting the interests of Uzbekistan within the framework of GSP+.