EU unsatisfied over GSP plus compliance

LAHORE: European Union (EU) on Thursday expressed concern over the lacklustre implementation of 27 United Nations conventions by Pakistan in return of generalised scheme of preferences (GSP) plus status granted to the country.
An EU delegation during a recent visit to Pakistan said they are in contact with the government of Pakistan to discuss this.
The delegation, comprising EU Ambassador Lars-Gunnar Wigemark and others, met with members of All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA).
They, however, expressed satisfaction over the initiatives taken by APTMA with regards to the compliance.
Chairman APTMA SM Tanveer said the textile industry of Pakistan focuses on making the best use of GSP Plus facility from the EU, which is evident from the fact that Pakistan’s exports to EU increased by 29 percent between January and November 2014.
Pakistan’s textile industry is one of the most competitive in the world. The garment industry is energised, and is looking for new avenue. However, productivity of garmenting is comparatively low, and thus requires assistance from the EU.
Tanveer proposed that the master trainers could train our trainers for improvement in productivity.
APTMA cheif said the association has undertaken a number of initiatives, including setting up of a sustainable production centre for energy efficiency, renewable energy and environment, besides ensuring high level of corporate social responsibility and water conservation, to keep the textile industry at par with global standards and expectations.
Group leader APTMA Gohar Ejaz said sustainability of GSP+ is imperative for job creation.
Ejaz said APTMA has envisioned creation of three million new direct jobs to reduce poverty level, double textile exports from $13 billion to $26 billion, focusing value-addition, additional investment of $5 billion in machinery and technology in next five years and making Pakistan textile industry a dependable supply source.