Chinese textile imports to be unblocked at EU ports
Chinese textiles blocked at ports will be able to enter the European Union again as of Wednesday, ending a trade row which had anything – from lingerie to pullovers – pile up in customs warehouses.
The European Commission said a deal reached with the Chinese to allow half of the excess garments into the market outside quota rules now, and half to be counted against limits for this year and next year, could now be fully implemented.
“I am pleased the EU and China have been able to resolve this problem,” said EU Trade Commissioner Peter Mandelson.
He said the deal was done “without unfairly penalising retailers and importers”.
Mandelson said special care had been taken to avoid further blockage of goods this year, including the extension of a deadline for importers.
The agreement effectively raises import limits for this year, amid growing concern a flood of cheap Chinese goods undercuts European producers.
Earlier this year, major textile producers France, Spain and Italy pushed for restrictions to stem the rapid growth of Chinese trade.
