AKIPRESS.COM - A Kyrgyz delegation representing business associations is visiting the UK on April 25-27 to learn about the UK’s new Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), with a particular focus on the textiles and agricultural sectors. This is the first trade mission between the UK and Kyrgyzstan since 2019 and represents an important step in the growing bilateral ties between the two countries, the British Embassy said.

The DCTS enters into force in June 2023. Kyrgyzstan is eligible under the DCTS’ Enhanced Preferences pillar, for reduced or zero import tariffs on 92% of eligible lines, along with simpler terms of trade. For Kyrgyzstan, the scheme allows the export of more than 8000 commodity lines on these terms.

The Kyrgyz trade mission is headed by President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Temir Sariev. Mr Sariev is accompanied by the leaders of the Kyrgyzstan Agricultural Development Association and Association of Fashion and Textiles.

The delegation will meet with the London Chamber of Commerce, UK trade associations, potential partners and buyers, and service providers for UK customs and compliance procedures. In addition, they will hold meetings at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and the Department for Business and Trade.

The overall purpose of this visit is to take the first steps in unlocking the potential DCTS offers for Kyrgyz business by fostering connections between representatives of key Kyrgyz business associations with potential British buyers and improving understanding and awareness of other non-tariff barriers that inhibit Kyrgyz exports to the UK.