In order to collect information for the possible safeguard measures or anti-dumping charges, the EU has implemented a new mechanism towards footwear from China since February 1, requiring the shoe importers to apply for the permits from governments of any EU members. This system covers all items under the quota regime, which was lifted from the beginning of this year.
If the EU testifies that there exists a great surge of Chinese shoes in its market, it would take measures to protect the domestic businesses.
"That will be a heavy blow to China's shoemaking industry," said Wang Jin, an official with China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Light Industrial Products, Arts and Crafts.
The European Union is the second largest market of Chinese shoes, accounting for some 14.6 per cent of the country's exports. China exported about 800 million pairs of shoes, worth of more than US$2 billion, to the EU last year.
The Chinese Government and the industrial associations have carried out series of measures to watch the footwear exports and strengthen self-regulation among the sector.
China's trade watchdog, the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM), has also put shoe exports under close supervision.
A special team has been established under Wei's association to deal with trade conflictions in this sector and inform the manufacturers of the latest information.
They are also considering restrictive measures o considering restrictive measures similar to those on the textile exports.
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