EU Government Notices for May 6

The European Union issued the following trade-related releases on May 6, 2011:

• Review of EU GSP scheme. On May 10, 2011, the European Commission is set to propose a review of its Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) scheme to make it better suited to helping those countries that need it most. The purpose of the GSP review is to examine how the scheme can be made more effective in providing trade benefits and how to strengthen support for human and labor rights, the environment, good governance, and how the application of the scheme can be made simpler. (here)
• New customs reg against infringing IPR. On May 18, 2011, the European Commission is scheduled to present a proposal for a European intellectual property rights strategy. As part of the strategy, the Commission will also propose a new customs regulation that aims to reinforce the current legal framework for Customs actions against goods suspected of infringing IPR. (here)
• EU-ASEAN Summit. In his closing remarks at the first EU-ASEAN Business Summit, EU Trade Commissioner De Gucht stated that with generally low tariffs both in both the EU and in ASEAN, the tasks for trade negotiators are now regulatory barriers, such as access to services and investment, opening public procurement markets and ensuring that brands and innovation can be properly protected. (here)
• Recalls. The European Commission has issued its weekly list of measures to prevent or restrict the marketing or use of 29 products in the EU, including certain clothing and textiles, toys, cosmetics, electrical appliances, etc. (here)