•The U.S. Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) is a program providing free rates of duty for products from beneficiary developing countries to encourage their economic growth, beginning in 1976. More than 145 countries are eligible for this trade preference in over 4400 product items (except textile and apparel, footwear and other sensitive items such as steel, glass, etc.).
•The original GSP program has expired and has been extended many times. The most recent program expiration was on July 31, 2013 and after a brief lapse, was renewed again in 2015 until the next expiration date, which is December 31, 2017.