Compliance with conventions vital for GSP+ - EU delegation

by Lalin Fernandopulle

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The ratification and effective implementation of the 27 international conventions is crucial for Sri Lanka to renew the GSP+ concession benefits at the end of the year, an European Union (EU) delegation told the media on Wednesday.

The delegation addressed the media on issues that were discussed pertaining to the current political situation in the country and the progress of the GSP+ concession at a meeting held between the European Commission and the Government recently.

Deputy Director General Asia and Latin America, Joao Aguiar Machado said no decision has been taken and that the review process of the GSP+ benefits will be fair and impartial.

“The EU Commission has called upon the Government to ensure that it complies with the requirements of the extension which benefits a large segment of the population in the country’s apparel sector”, he said.

The delegation said that they encouraged the government to submit its outstanding reports to the relevant monitoring bodies without delay.

Machado said the EU delegation expressed concern about the violation of human rights in the country and added that urgent steps need to be taken to curtail abductions and torture of media personnel which is a major impediment to media freedom.

Head of Delegation, Julian Wilson said the socio-political situation in Sri Lanka is not only a concern for the EU but also a concern for the rest of the international community. The recent spate of abductions, harassments to journalists and the reports of the International Group of Eminent Persons will concern the review of the GSP+.

The apparel sector is the country’s leading export revenue earner employing over 300,000 people from the rural community and supports the rural economy and empowers women who account for over 80 per cent of the workforce in the industry.

Stakeholders in the apparel industry said the termination of the GSP+ concessions will have an adverse impact on the sector but added that they will face reality and take steps to move into new markets and consolidate its position.

Apparel industry experts said though the concession scheme was a major advantage for the industry the utilisation has been around 10 per cent. The country’s apparel sector is known for compliance with international standards of best practices which has been backed by the Garments Without Guilt program initiated by the Joint Apparel Association Forum.

The delegation said the EU is a friend of Sri Lanka and is committed to work together to develop the country. The EU will help the government address issues but will not interfere in the affairs of the country.

The EU has been a constant and supportive donor of Sri Lanka in times of difficulty. The progress of the implementation of the 140 million Euro tsunami assistance was reviewed at the meeting.