USTR Seeks Comment on Withdrawal of GSP for Bangladesh
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative seeks comment by Jan. 31 on whether to recommend that duty-free treatment for imports from Bangladesh under the Generalized Systems of Preferences be withdrawn, suspended or limited because Bangladesh isn't taking steps to give workers internationally recognized worker rights, specifically the rights of association and to organize and bargain collectively.
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In 2007, the GSP Subcommittee accepted for review a GSP country practice petition from the AFL-CIO seeking removal of GSP benefits for Bangladesh based on the country's non-compliance with the GSP statutory eligibility criteria related to work rights. The subcommittee held public hearings and solicited public comment, and based on the most recent information, believes that Bangladeshi governments' lack of progress in addressing workers' rights issues warrants consideration of possible withdrawal, suspension of limitation of the country's trade benefits. Any change to Bangladesh’s trade benefits under GSP requires a presidential determination.
U.S. 2011 imports from Bangladesh amounted to $26.3 million. Key products included tobacco products, sports equipment,china kitchenware and plastic articles.
USTR contact: Marin Weaver (202) 395-9618, Marin_Weaver@ustr.eop.gov.