Bangladesh is implementing two strategies to maintain its duty-free access to the EU after graduating from least-developed-country (LDC) status: negotiating a full free trade agreement (FTA) and aiming to qualify for the EU's GSP Plus scheme. Nearly half of Bangladesh's exports go to the EU, currently benefiting from the "Everything but Arms" scheme. With graduation set for November 2026, Bangladesh has sought a three-year delay, and the EU will extend preferences until 2029. However, post-graduation, Bangladesh could face a loss of up to $17.5 billion in annual exports due to reliance on LDC benefits. Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir prioritizes the FTA but recognizes the lengthy negotiation process, while also pushing for GSP Plus to avoid market gaps. Bangladesh has met most requirements for GSP Plus, aided by recent labor reforms, although economist Mohammad Abdur Razzaque warns that an FTA would provide a more stable solution, as Bangladesh's clothing exports already exceed the scheme's thresholds. In 2025, EU-Bangladesh goods trade reached €23.3 billion, with textiles making up 94% of exports. Garment industry representatives urge the government to keep zero-duty access a priority while exploring all negotiation avenues. (ICE NEW DELHI)

Fonte notizia: The Daily Star