The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) is a U.S. trade program designed to promote economic growth in the developing world by providing preferential duty-free entry for up to 4,800 products from 129 designated beneficiary countries and territories. GSP was instituted on January 1, 1976, by the Trade Act of 1974.
Under the GSP program, certain products can enter the United States duty-free if beneficiary developing countries meet the eligibility criteria established by its Congress. GSP promotes sustainable development in beneficiary countries by helping these countries to increase and diversify their trade with the United States. The GSP program provides additional benefits for products from least developed countries.