EU Trade Commissioner meets European textile industry ahead of move to free trade in textiles

After the meeting Mr Mandelson said: “I believe that the European textile industry is able to compete in the global market. The industry has devoted huge resources to preparing for this change over the last ten years. By investing in technological innovation and focusing on Europe ’s traditional strengths in high-tech specialist fabrics and designer fashion, the European textile industry remains an industry with a future.”

Mr Mandelson and Mr Libeert both agreed on the need to strengthen the integrated trade and investment zone in the Euro-Mediterranean area to allow the tariff-free movement of textile and clothing products between Euro-Mediterranean countries. This will strengthen the competitiveness of the textiles industries in the European region.

The Commission has welcomed China’s recognition of the importance of ensuring a smooth transition to quota-free trade in textiles. It will closely monitor textile trade flows to assess the impact of change. The European Union retains the ability to respond to any sudden surge in Chinese textile exports, but measures would be used only where fully justified. Peter Mandelson said, “I intend to make sure that the way in which this change occurs is as efficient and smooth as possible and does not send a shock to the textiles sector. In particular, it is important that weak and vulnerable countries are not sent reeling by its impact.”

Mr Mandelson welcomed the work of the High Level Group on textiles, which recognizes the particular importance of research and innovation, and said he would maintain a close dialogue with the European textile industry.

Mr Mandelson and Mr Libeert also discussed the Doha Development Round and agreed on the importance of ensuring market access for European textile exports, in particular for high-value specialist products.