EU developing-country tariff scheme to shrink as beneficiaries get wealthier
By Yuqing Yang ( July 17, 2026, 09:47 GMT | Insight) -- The number of countries benefiting from the EU's preferential tariff scheme for developing countries is set to decline from next year as economies move to higher income status or conclude free trade agreements with the bloc, the European Commission says. Countries moving out of least-developed-country status are also expected to face significantly higher tariffs unless they qualify for a stricter regime for sustainability and other commitments.The number of countries benefiting from the European Union's 55-year-old preferential tariff scheme for developing countries is set to decline from next year as beneficiaries graduate to higher income status or conclude free trade agreements with the bloc, the European Commission trade department said on Thursday....
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