Pakistan, during negotiations with the Netherlands, reaffirmed its commitment to the European Union’s Generalised Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP+), while also highlighting major trade-related concerns that continue to hinder market access.
According to a statement, during a meeting held on Saturday between the Federal Minister of Commerce, the Secretary of Commerce, and Netherlands Ambassador Robert Jan Sigger, Pakistan expressed concern over the withdrawal of concessions on ethanol and the ongoing dispute with India regarding the geographical indication (GI) of basmati rice.
Commerce Secretary Jawad Pal explained that the EU has only one framework of engagement with Pakistan — GSP+. He assured that Pakistan is fully committed to fulfilling all its obligations, as it considers this commitment to be in its best interest.
The Commerce Secretary also raised the issue of the EU withdrawing concessions on ethanol. He stated that Pakistan’s industry feels it has been treated unfairly, and the relevant industrial association has filed an appeal with the EU regarding this matter.
Government officials requested the Dutch ambassador to consider this appeal.
They also informed him that both Pakistan and India have submitted applications for GI recognition of basmati rice. India’s claim of exclusive rights over basmati is neither historically nor culturally justified.
The officials further noted that Pakistan’s rice exports to the Netherlands — regardless of rice type — have significant untapped potential.
During the meeting, Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan said that upon reviewing the bilateral trade volume, he observed numerous opportunities for diversification. There is great potential to increase the export of agricultural and food products from Pakistan. He added that much can be explored to improve production and quality.
The minister also emphasized the importance and potential of the services sector. “Considering Pakistan’s large young population, the services sector can grow much faster and more easily than goods exports,” he said.
The Commerce Minister also praised Jazz Telecom, which is based in the Netherlands, for its role in promoting digital financial inclusion among Pakistan’s rural population.
The ambassador shared that discussions are under way to finalize dates for formal negotiations to explore new avenues of cooperation and strengthen bilateral ties. Regarding the upcoming GSP monitoring mission, he expressed hope that the visit would help further enhance EU–Pakistan relations.
The minister highlighted that after the 18th amendment, several subjects have been devolved to the provinces; however, the Ministry of Commerce is coordinating with all relevant stakeholders to ensure awareness and alignment.
The Dutch representative said that Dutch companies previously faced issues in repatriating profits, but this problem has now been resolved with the support of stakeholders in Pakistan. He expressed hope that improved macroeconomic conditions would help regain the confidence of foreign investors.
Meanwhile, the Commerce Minister stated that Pakistan is working to expand its dairy and meat sectors and increase exports of both products. He requested the Dutch ambassador to explore possible technology-sharing in these areas. The ambassador assured him of full cooperation, mentioning several initiatives — particularly drone-assisted water management projects — that could benefit Pakistan.
