Preferential market access issues

This chapter provides a discussion on the various issues related to LDCs’ enhanced market access through the multilateral process (such as the so-called Duty Free Quota Free or DFQF package) or through use of Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) provided unilaterally by developed and some emerging economies. A review of the decisions from the Eight Ministerial Conference and the links to the Istanbul Programme of Action is made along with a review of a revised GSP schemes by China and India to align all actions seemingly undertaken to reduce or completely eliminate barriers to market access for the LDCs (most relevant export products). Measures of margins of preference and issues of erosion of preference are also explored.