ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN: Pakistan’s Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan has called on the European Union (EU) to address two long-standing trade concerns — the withdrawal of duty concessions on ethanol exports and the delayed recognition of Basmati rice’s Geographical Indication (GI) status.
During a meeting with the EU Parliament’s Committee on Development, led by Austrian MEP Lukas Mandl, Jam Kamal stressed that the removal of duty concessions under the GSP+ scheme has directly impacted rural livelihoods and the country’s agricultural economy. He urged the EU to reconsider the decision, highlighting that Pakistan’s ethanol exports — largely tied to sugarcane production — support thousands of farming families across Punjab and Sindh.
The minister also pressed the EU to expedite Pakistan’s rightful claim to Basmati as a unique national product. “Basmati is a heritage crop — its origin and identity lie within Pakistan’s fields,” Kamal asserted, warning that delays in GI recognition continue to disadvantage Pakistani farmers in global markets.
In his remarks, Jam Kamal reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the GSP+ framework, emphasizing the country’s progress on human rights, labor reforms, and institutional strengthening. He noted that Pakistan’s recent election to the UN Human Rights Council for 2026–2028 reflects the country’s dedication to international standards.
Officials and trade analysts believe Islamabad’s renewed diplomatic push could redefine Pakistan’s agricultural trade relations with Europe, especially if the EU responds positively to calls for fair treatment and recognition.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.