There are many different Forms and Certificates available to importers and shippers, providing eligibility or relief from UK import duty and / or VAT. One these more commonly used Certificates, is a green document, called the 'Generalised System of Preferences' Form A, more commonly known as just a 'GSP'. If your goods originate from a developing country, then you too may be eligible under this scheme.
What is a GSP?
The EU's Generalised System of Preferences is a trade arrangement through which the EU provides preferential access to the EU market to 176 developing countries and territories, in the form of reduced tariffs for their goods when entering the EU market.
The primary objective of the GSP is to contribute to the reduction of poverty and the promotion of sustainable development and good governance. Preferential tariff rates when exporting to the EU market enable Developing Countries to participate more fully in international trade and generate additional export revenue to support them in developing industry and jobs and reducing poverty.
Does a GSP apply to my goods?
In order for you to find out whether your goods are eligible under the 'GSP' scheme, you first need to classify your goods and obtain your 10-digit commodity code. Once you have your code, the EU's Taric page or the UK's Business Link page, will tell you if there is a reduced rate of duty, or indeed, if it becomes duty-free. Please feel free to contact us if you need some assistance with this. (Click here to visit our 'Commodity Code/Taric' page).
How do I get a GSP?
If your goods do fall within this scheme, then you need to ask your supplier/shipper to make sure that they raise a 'GSP' before shipping your goods. (This can only be done in the country of origin).
My goods have been shipped without a GSP?
If your goods have been shipped, cleared and delivered, and you didn't realise that you could have had a 'GSP' raised, then, it's a simple case, of you have missed out. A 'GSP' must be raised before they are Customs cleared.
If a 'GSP' was raised, but wasn't made available before your goods were cleared through UK Customs. It is possible for a 'Post-Clearance Amendment' and / or Duty Reclaim, to be done.
Please note. Your clearance agent/broker may charge you for this service, depending on circumstance.
(https://www.ukimports.org/international-trade/documentation/generalised-system-preferences-gsp-form-a.php)
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