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KARACHI, September 10, 2026: Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) President Atif Ikram Sheikh has praised the European Union’s Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+) for its major contribution to Pakistan’s export growth.
He said Pakistan’s exports to the European Union have increased by 108% over the past decade. He described GSP+ as an important support for the country’s economy.
Sheikh appreciated the European Union and its mission in Pakistan for their continued cooperation. He said GSP+ has allowed most Pakistani products to enter the European market at zero or preferential tariff rates.
According to Sheikh, the European Union has become an important economic partner for Pakistan. He said the strong growth in exports shows the value of the trade relationship between Pakistan and the EU.
He added that GSP+ has given Pakistani businesses access to a major international market. It has also created opportunities to diversify exports beyond traditional textile products.
However, Sheikh said the period leading up to 2029 will be critical. The GSP+ framework is evolving, while international compliance requirements are becoming more demanding.
He urged the government to provide stronger support to businesses. This should include better facilitation, greater awareness and targeted incentives.
Sheikh also called for dedicated government-industry task forces. These task forces could help businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), understand and meet EU requirements.
These requirements include labour rights, human rights, environmental standards and good governance.
The FPCCI president also urged the government to remove bureaucratic hurdles. He said improving the ease of doing business would help Pakistani companies compete more effectively in European markets.
He further called for targeted policy incentives for the textile sector and other major industries. Such measures, he said, would help businesses expand their presence in the European market.
Sheikh stressed that the transition period until December 2028 should be treated as an opportunity. He said the government must actively support businesses during this period.
He warned that Pakistan could risk losing its hard-earned market access without structural reforms, competitive energy prices and strong compliance support.
The FPCCI president reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to working with the Government of Pakistan and the EU Mission. He said FPCCI would continue efforts to maximize the benefits of GSP+ and support Pakistan’s long-term economic stability.
