Details for Active GSP
EU-GSP+
EU Generalized System of Preferences Plus
United Kingdom DCTS
Developing Countries Trading Scheme
Canada GSP
Canadian Generalized System of Preferences
Turkiye GSP
Turkiye Generalized System of Preferences
EAEU GSP
Eurasian Economic Union Generalized
System of Preferences
EU-GSP+
EU Generalized System of Preferences Plus
What is the EU-GSP+?
The EU Generalized System of Preferences Plus (EU-GSP+) is a special trade arrangement provided by the European Union to developing countries, including the Philippines. It grants duty-free and reduced tariff access to the European market for over 6,200 products. This scheme encourages sustainable development and promotes good governance by offering these trade benefits in return for compliance with international conventions.
For Filipino businesses, this means a valuable opportunity to expand their market reach into the EU, enjoying a competitive edge through tariff-free access on a wide range of goods.
Key Benefits of the EU-GSP+ for Philippine Exporters
Under the GSP+ arrangement, most products exported from the Philippines can enter the EU with zero tariffs, making them more price-competitive. This is particularly advantageous for businesses in industries such as:
- Agriculture
- Textiles
and
Garments - Manufacturing
and
Electronics
-
Agriculture
Bananas, pineapples, coconut products, and other fruits.
-
Textiles and Garments
Apparel and textile goods produced in the Philippines can be exported duty-free.
-
Manufacturing and Electronics
Processed food, electronics, and mechanical appliances can also benefit from reduced or zero tariffs.
This translates to lower costs and better pricing for buyers in the EU, increasing the attractiveness of Philippine products in a highly competitive market.
With reduced or zero tariffs, Philippine products become more competitively priced, which is a key advantage in industries like agriculture, textiles, and manufacturing. This allows Filipino businesses to expand their market share in the EU and create stronger trade relationships with European importers.
The EU-GSP+ covers over 6,200 products, allowing businesses from various sectors to benefit. This wide coverage is especially beneficial for sectors such as:
- Agricultural
Goods - Industrial
and
Manufactured Goods - Textiles
and
Garments
-
Agricultural Goods
Including tropical fruits, coconut products, and seafood.
-
Industrial and Manufactured Goods
Such as electronics, furniture, and processed food products.
-
Textiles and Garments
A major export category for the Philippines.
By identifying eligible products, businesses can optimize their export strategy to take full advantage of the scheme.
How to Maximize the Benefits of EU-GSP+
For Philippine businesses to benefit from the EU-GSP+, they must follow these critical steps:
To benefit from GSP+, exporters must first ensure that their products are eligible for preferential tariffs. This can be done by checking the Combined Nomenclature (CN) Code and cross-referencing it with Annex V of Regulation (EU) No. 978/2012, which lists eligible products under the GSP+ arrangement.
The EU-GSP+ requires products to meet strict rules of origin. This means that:
Products must be wholly obtained in the Philippines (such as agricultural products or minerals), or
Products must have undergone sufficient transformation in the Philippines using imported materials.
For example, textile goods must undergo significant processing (such as garment manufacturing) to qualify for duty-free access. Compliance with these rules is essential for exporters to maintain GSP+ eligibility.
To benefit from GSP+, businesses must provide the necessary Certificate of Origin (Form A) or use the Registered Exporter (REX) System to self-certify the origin of their goods. The REX system streamlines the process by allowing businesses to register online and self-declare the origin of their goods, reducing administrative burdens.
Key Industries Benefiting from EU-GSP
Several industries in the Philippines benefit greatly from the GSP+ scheme, particularly:
The agricultural sector is one of the biggest beneficiaries, with products such as bananas, pineapples, coconut-based goods, and seafood enjoying duty-free access to the EU. This allows Philippine agricultural exporters to compete more effectively in the global market.
The Philippines’ thriving textile and garment industry enjoys significant benefits under GSP+. Philippine-made clothing and textiles are exempt from tariffs, allowing businesses to compete with other global players in the European fashion market.
Manufactured products, such as electronics, mechanical appliances, and processed food, also benefit from reduced or zero tariffs. This opens new doors for Filipino manufacturers to export more competitively to Europe.
Risks and the Potential for Temporary Withdrawal of GSP+ Benefits
While GSP+ offers considerable benefits, businesses should be aware of the potential risks involved, particularly regarding compliance. The EU reserves the right to temporarily withdraw GSP+ benefits if a country is found to be in violation of international conventions, including those related to:
FAQs for Philippine Exporters
Are all Philippine products eligible for EU-GSP+?
No. Only certain product categories are eligible. Exporters must verify product eligibility by checking the HS code in Annex V of Regulation (EU) No. 978/2012
What documentation is required to benefit from GSP+?
Exporters must submit a Certificate of Origin (Form A) or use the REX system to self-certify the origin of their products.
Is GSP+ permanent for the Philippines?
No. GSP+ benefits are subject to review and can be temporarily withdrawn if the Philippines fails to comply with the required international conventions.
Conclusion: Strategies for Long-Term Success
The EU-GSP+ scheme offers a remarkable opportunity for Philippine businesses to expand into the European market by providing preferential access. To fully leverage this advantage, businesses must:
By aligning their practices with the GSP+ standards, Philippine companies can boost their export competitiveness, increase revenue, and build lasting trade relationships in the European Union.
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United Kingdom DCTS
Developing Countries Trading Scheme
Overview of the UK Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS)
The Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) launched on 19 June 2023, replacing the UK Generalised Scheme of Preferences following the UK’s exit from the EU. This was introduced by the UK government to promote economic development in developing countries. The DCTS provides preferential access to the UK market by offering reduced or zero tariffs on a wide range of products.
The Philippines is eligible for Enhanced Preferences under the DCTS. This entitles Philippine business to 0% import tariffs on 92% of all products. 0.8% of product lines are subject to reduced (but not 0) tariffs. The remaining products not covered under Enhanced Preferences are subject to tariff rates under the UK Global Tariff (UKGT).
For Philippine businesses, this scheme represents a significant opportunity to export competitively priced goods to the UK, benefiting from favorable tariff rates.
Key Benefits of the UK DCTS for Philippine Exporters
Philippine businesses can benefit from duty-free or reduced tariffs on eligible goods under the DCTS, making exports to the UK more cost-effective and increasing the competitiveness of their products in the UK market. Some of the key products benefiting from these preferential terms include:
- Agricultural
Products - Textiles
and
Garments - Manufactured
Goods
-
Agricultural Products
Including coconut products, tropical fruits, and seafood.
-
Textiles and Garments
Clothing and textile products made in the Philippines can enter the UK market with reduced tariffs.
-
Manufactured Goods
Electronics, machinery, and other industrial products.
The DCTS covers a broad range of products, allowing Philippine exporters in diverse industries to take advantage of this preferential treatment. Products from agriculture, manufacturing, and textiles are particularly well-positioned to benefit from the tariff reductions.
By utilizing the DCTS, Philippine businesses can foster stronger trade ties with UK importers, providing them with high-quality, competitively priced goods. This helps to open new opportunities for long-term contracts and expanded market reach within the UK.
Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing UK DCTS Benefits
To maximize the advantages of the UK DCTS, Philippine exporters should follow these steps:
Philippine exporters must first ensure that their products are eligible for DCTS benefits. This can be done by referencing the UK Integrated Online Tariff Tool. Use the tool to look up commodity codes, import duties, taxes and controls. This will show what duties, if any, are payable for goods on import to the UK from the Philippines.
Goods must meet the rules of origin under the DCTS, meaning:
The product must be wholly obtained in the Philippines (e.g., agricultural products or raw materials), or
The product must have undergone substantial transformation in the Philippines, meaning it meets specific thresholds for value addition or processing.
For example, textile goods must undergo significant manufacturing processes, such as weaving or garment production, to qualify for preferential access.
Further guidance on understanding the rules of origin under the DCTS is available here.
Exporters must submit proof of origin to benefit from the DCTS. The required documents include:
Form A or a Certificate of Origin: This certifies that the goods meet the rules of origin. Further guidance is available here.
Customs Documentation: Ensuring compliance with all customs regulations when exporting to the UK.
Under the HMRC's rules, exporters may be required to provide additional documents if requested by the UK customs authorities to verify the origin of the goods.
Key Sectors Benefiting from UK DCTS in the Philippines
The UK DCTS provides significant benefits to various sectors of the Philippine economy. Some of the most impacted sectors include:
Key agricultural exports such as bananas, pineapples, coconut oil, and seafood benefit from zero or reduced tariffs under the DCTS. This enables Filipino agricultural products to be competitively priced in the UK market.
The Philippine textile and garment industry can leverage the UK DCTS to expand its footprint in the UK. Clothing items such as shirts, dresses, and woven garments enjoy tariff reductions, allowing Filipino manufacturers to compete more effectively against other global exporters.
Manufactured goods, including electronic components, appliances, and mechanical equipment, are also eligible for tariff reductions, helping the Philippines increase exports in these high-value sectors.
DCTS Conditions
While the UK DCTS offers numerous benefits, the UK government reserves the right to temporarily withdraw DCTS benefits if a country is found to be in violation of key international standards, including:
FAQs for Philippine Exporters
Are all Philippine products eligible for UK DCTS benefits?
The Philippines has access to Enhanced Preferences under the DCTS. This means that most – but not all product categories are eligible to zero or reduced duties. Exporters must verify their product’s eligibility by checking the tariff code on the UK Integrated Online Tariff Tool.
What documentation is required to benefit from the UK DCTS?
Exporters must submit a Form A or a Certificate of Origin. In some circumstances exporters may be required to provide other supporting documents to verify that their goods meet the DCTS rules of origin.
Is the UK DCTS permanent for the Philippines?
The DCTS is a permanent scheme. However, benefits can be temporarily withdrawn if the UK Government finds that beneficiary countries have engaged in serious and systematic contravention of international standards on labor, human rights, and environmental protection.
Conclusion: Strategies for Philippine Businesses
The UK DCTS under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) offers substantial opportunities for Philippine exporters to access the UK market at competitive prices. By ensuring product eligibility, adhering to rules of origin, and maintaining compliance with international standards, Filipino businesses can expand their presence in the UK and strengthen their trade relationships.
For assistance and further guidance, Philippine exporters can contact:
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Official Page
Canada GSP
Canadian Generalized System of Preferences
Overview of the Canadian Generalized System of Preferences (GSP)
The Canadian Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), also known as the General Preferential Tariff (GPT), provides reduced or zero tariffs on products exported from developing countries, including the Philippines. This system helps developing nations expand their exports by offering competitive access to the Canadian market. It was most recently extended until 31 December 2024 and remains a valuable tool for Philippine exporters to reduce costs and increase competitiveness.
Key Benefits of the Canadian GSP for Philippine Exporters
Under the Canadian GSP, Philippine exporters can benefit from zero or reduced tariffs on a wide range of products, including:
- Agricultural
Products - Textiles
and
Garments - Manufactured
Goods
-
Agricultural Products
such as coconut-based goods, tropical fruits, and seafood.
-
Textiles and Garments
Apparel products can enter Canada with reduced tariffs, creating opportunities for the Philippine textile industry.
-
Manufactured Goods
Industrial products such as electronics and machinery also benefit from this preferential treatment.
The GSP offers broad product coverage across various industries. Philippine exporters from sectors such as agriculture, textiles, and manufacturing can all benefit from tariff reductions. However, certain goods, particularly chemical products and some textiles, may be excluded from the GPT.
By taking advantage of the Canadian GSP, Philippine exporters can forge stronger trade relationships with Canadian buyers by offering competitive prices and high-quality products. This can lead to long-term trade deals and increase the presence of Philippine goods in Canada.
Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing Canadian GSP Benefits
For Philippine exporters to maximize the benefits of the Canadian GSP, they must follow these key steps:
The first step for exporters is to check whether their products are eligible for tariff reductions under the Canadian GSP. This can be done by reviewing the Canadian Customs Tariff, which outlines product coverage based on Harmonized System (HS) codes.
To qualify for GSP benefits, products must meet Canadian rules of origin:
Goods must either be wholly obtained in the Philippines or have undergone significant processing there. For example, at least 60% of the ex-factory price of the product must be added in the Philippines or another GSP-eligible country to meet the value-added threshold.
Cumulation is allowed, meaning inputs from other GPT beneficiary countries or Canada can count towards the value-added requirement.
Exporters must submit proof of origin through either:
Form A (Certificate of Origin) or,
An Exporter’s Statement of Origin. For textiles and apparel, Form B255 is required. Proper documentation ensures smoother customs processing and helps verify that the goods meet the required origin criteria.
Key Industries Benefiting from Canadian GSP
The Canadian GSP provides substantial benefits to several key industries in the Philippines, including:
Agricultural exports such as bananas, coconuts, and seafood are among the top beneficiaries of the GSP. Duty-free or reduced tariff access enables these products to be competitively priced in the Canadian market.
The Philippine textile industry stands to gain significantly from the GSP. Reduced tariffs on clothing and apparel products allow Filipino manufacturers to compete with other global exporters, especially in sectors like garments and fabrics.
Manufactured goods, including electronics and mechanical appliances, benefit from reduced tariffs under the Canadian GSP, which opens doors for increased exports in these high-value sectors.
Compliance and Risk Management:
Safeguard Measures
and Temporary Withdrawal
While the Canadian GSP provides significant advantages, exporters must be aware of potential compliance risks. Canada reserves the right to temporarily withdraw GSP benefits if certain conditions are not met, such as non-compliance with:
FAQs for Philippine Exporters
Are all Philippine products eligible for GSP benefits?
No, only specific products are eligible for preferential tariffs under the GSP. Exporters must verify product eligibility by consulting the Canadian Customs Tariff.
What documentation is required to claim GSP benefits?
Exporters must submit a Certificate of Origin (Form A), Exporter’s Statement of Origin, or Form B255 for textiles and apparel goods.
Is the Canadian GSP permanent for the Philippines?
No, the GSP is subject to review, and benefits can be withdrawn if rules of origin or other criteria are violated.
Conclusion: Leveraging the Canadian GSP for Export Growth
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Turkiye GSP
Turkiye Generalized System of Preferences
Overview of the Turkiye Generalized System of Preferences (GSP)
Türkiye’s Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), harmonized with the EU’s framework since 2006, grants duty-free or reduced-tariff access to industrial and selected agricultural products from eligible developing countries and LDCs. In effect since 2002 and aligned with Türkiye’s customs union commitments, the scheme provides full duty-free treatment for LDCs (HS Chapters 25–97, excluding Chapter 93) and selective benefits for developing countries based on product sensitivity. It operates under Ministerial Decision No. 2014/7064, which defines rules of origin and administrative procedures.
Key Benefits of the Turkiye GSP for Philippine Exporters
- Eligible
Countries - Product
Coverage - Tariff
Benefit - Rules
of Origin
-
Eligible Countries
Beneficiaries: Developing Countries & LDCs designated by Türkiye’s Ministry of Trade
Coverage: Over 100 countries / territories (listed annually in the Import Regime Decree)
-
Product Coverage
Industrial goods and selected agricultural products
LDCs: Broad duty-free access
Developing counties: Tariff cuts based
-
Tariff Benefit
Non-sensitive products: Full duty suspension
Sensitive Products: Reduced duties (aligned with EU GSP)
LDCs: Duty-free, quota-free access for most eligible goods
-
Rules of Origin
Must be wholly obtained or sufficiently processed (Decision No. 2014/7064)
LDCs: Relaxed rules (e.g., single transformation for apparel)
Developing Countries: Stricter ruled (e.g., double transformation for apparel)
Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing Trukiye GSP Benefits
To benefit from this scheme, exporters must comply with specific origin rules, documentation requirements, and shipment procedures established by the Trukiye GSP. This guide outlines the four key steps to access GSP preferences under the Regal framework, ensuring smooth and compliant exports.
Check if your country is listed as a GSP beneficiary under Türkiye’s import regime decree.
Confirm whether your product is eligible for tariff preference by referring to the applicable HS code and Türkiye’s GSP product list.
Product must be either: Wholly obtained (e.g., minerals, crops, animals raised locally) or Sufficiently processed, where non-originating materials ≤ 50% of ex-works price.
Origin criteria follow the rules defined by Türkiye’s GSP legislation, aligned with EU practices.
Provide a Certificate of Origin (Form A) issued by a competent authority recognized by Türkiye.
For least developed countries (LDCs), Türkiye may accept simplified requirements.
The certificate must bear a stamp of the issuing body and be submitted at the time of customs clearance
Goods must be transported directly from the exporting country to Türkiye.
If transit occurs through other countries, the goods must remain under customs control and not be altered during transit.
Key Industries Benefiting from Turkiye GSP
The Turkiye GSP provides substantial benefits to several key industries in the Philippines, including:
(HS chapters: 50-63)
Philippine garments and natural fiber-based textiles such as piña and abaca blends can benefit from Türkiye’s GSP, allowing duty-free or reduced-tariff access to its large apparel manufacturing market.
(HS chapters: 02 -20)
Tropical fruits like pineapples, mangoes, and bananas—as well as value-added products such as dried mangoes and coconut milk—are eligible for tariff reductions under Türkiye’s GSP, catering to the country’s growing demand for exotic foods.
(HS chapters: 25, 26, 44, 94)
Eco-friendly furniture components and handcrafted items made of rattan or bamboo from the Philippines can enter Türkiye at lower duties, meeting demand for sustainable home décor.
(HS chapters: 84-85)
Philippine-made wire harnesses, semiconductors, and circuit components enjoy preferential tariffs, aligning with Türkiye’s role as a regional hub for electronics and appliance assembly.
Compliance and Risk Management:
Conditions for GSP Suspension under Türkiye’s Scheme
While the Türkiye GSP provides meaningful tariff advantages to eligible developing and least developed countries, exporters must remain compliant with all program requirements. Türkiye reserves the right to suspend or withdraw GSP benefits if the following issues are identified:
Goods do not meet minimum processing or wholly obtained criteria as defined under Türkiye’s GSP regulations.
Submission of falsified or improperly issued Form A certificates, or failure to maintain origin proof.
Türkiye may apply safeguard measures if GSP imports cause or threaten serious harm to local producers.
FAQs for Philippine Exporters to Turkiye
Are all Philippine products eligible for GSP benefits in Türkiye?
The Philippines is listed as a beneficiary under Türkiye’s GSP scheme. However, not all product categories are eligible for reduced or zero duties. Exporters must confirm product eligibility by referring to the applicable HS code and Türkiye’s current import regime decree.
Is the Türkiye GSP a permanent arrangement?
Exporters must submit a **Certificate of Origin (Form A)**, **Exporter’s Statement of Origin**, or **Form B255** for textiles aA.While Türkiye’s GSP is an established trade measure, it is subject to periodic review and updates. Countries may “graduate” from the scheme if they reach a higher level of development or competitiveness, as determined by the Turkish Ministry of Trade.nd apparel goods.
Where can I find more information on Türkiye’s GSP rules and tariffs?
Exporters can refer to Türkiye’s official Ministry of Trade website and the Import Regime Decree, which includes beneficiary country lists, product coverage, and applicable duty rates. Trade offices and the Philippine DTI can also assist with guidance.
Conclusion
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EAEU GSP
Eurasian Economic Union Generalized System of Preferences
Overview of the EAEU Generalized System of Preferences (GSP)
The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) – formed by Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia – is designed to promote economic development in developing and least developed countries (LDCs) by granting preferential tariff access to the Eurasia market. Rooted in UNCTAD principles, the scheme reflects the region’s commitment to inclusive trade.
Key Highlight
Originally launched by Russia in 1992 to support developing countries
Later harmonized under the CU framework to ensure unified application
Governed by the Protocol on the Common System of Tariff Preferences, effective January 1, 2010
Based on decisions by the Eurasian Economic Community (EurAsEC) and EAEU commission in November, 2009
Provides a structured and preferential trade regime aligned with UNCTAD’s development objectives
Key Benefits of the EAEU GSP for Philippine Exporters
Coverage and Benefits
The EAEU GSP offers preferential market access to foster trade with developing and least developed countries, applying a unified system across its member states.
- Eligible
Countries - Product
Coverage - Tariff
Benefit - Rules
of Origin
-
Eligible Countries
103 developing countries
49 least developed countries(LDCs), as defined by the UN General Assembly
-
Product Coverage
Approximately 2,800 products (10-digit HS Code)
-
Tariff Benefit
LDCs receive duty-free access for all covered products
25% MFN tariff reduction for developing countries
-
Rules of Origin
Goods must be Wholly Obtained or Sufficiently processed in beneficiary countries
Non-originating inputs must not exceed 50% of ex-works price
Step-by-Step Guide to Accessing EAEU GSP Benefits
To benefit from this scheme, exporters must comply with specific origin rules, documentation requirements, and shipment procedures established by the EAEU. This guide outlines the four key steps to access GSP preferences under the Regal framework, ensuring smooth and compliant exports.
Check if your country is on the beneficiary list under EAEU Decision No. 130 (2009).
Confirm whether your product is covered by referring to the official EAEU Product list.
Product must be either: Wholly obtained (e.g., minerals, crops, animals raised locally) or Sufficiently processed, where non-originating materials ≤ 50% of ex-works price.
Rules are aligned with origin standards defined by the EAEU agreement.
Provide Certificate of Origin (Form A) issued by an authorized body registered with the EAEU.
For shipments under $5,000, an invoice declaration may be used instead.
Goods must be transported directly to EAEU territory, with transit allowed under customs control if unaltered.
Key Industries Benefiting from EAEU GSP
The EAEU GSP provides substantial benefits to several key industries in the Philippines, including:
(HS chapters: 50-58, 5701)
Duty-free or reduced tariffs granted to Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and developing nations provide a significant trade advantage, particularly as they are supported by the high demand for raw textiles in the large consumer market of the EAEU, which continues to drive import needs and create favorable conditions for exporters from these regions.
(HS chapters: 02 -20)
A 25% tariff reduction or duty-free access for products like meat and seafood offers a significant advantage, especially as rising urban food demand within the EAEU continues to drive increased import needs.
(HS chapters: 25, 26, 44, 94)
Natural resources such as rubber, ores, and minerals align well with the industrial demands of the EAEU, while handicrafts made from tropical wood and bamboo offer unique export potential for niche consumer markets.
(HS chapters: 32-34)
Duty-free or reduced tariffs for Least Developed and Developing Countries offer a competitive edge, especially as the products are widely utilized in key EAEU industries such as cosmetics, cleaning, and textiles, driving consistent demand.
Compliance and Risk Management:
Grounds for Preferential Treatment Withdrawal
While the EAEU GSP provides duty advantages to developing countries, beneficiary exporters must manage compliance risks carefully. The EAEU reserves the right to suspend or withdraw preferential treatment in cases of serious non-compliance or abuse, including:
Goods not meeting minimum value-added requirements or improper cumulation
Misdeclaration of origin, falsified certificates, or improper use of Form A
Surge in imports causing serious harm to domestic producers
FAQs for Philippine Exporters
Are all products from beneficiary countries eligible for EAEU GSP benefits?
No. Although the EAEU GSP grants duty reductions to eligible developing and least-developed countries, not all product categories are covered. Exporters should verify the eligibility of their products based on the HS code and the latest EAEU GSP coverage lists published by the Eurasian Economic Commission.
What documents are required to claim GSP benefits under the EAEU scheme?
Exporters must submit Form A (Certificate of Origin) issued by an authorized body in the exporting country. The certificate must comply with the origin rules set by the EAEU. In some cases, additional documentation may be requested by customs to verify origin compliance.
Can EAEU GSP benefits be withdrawn temporarily?
Yes. The EAEU may suspend GSP benefits if:
ules of origin are violated
Fraudulent documentation is submitted
There is a sharp increase in imports causing injury to domestic industries