F.A.I.R. members are disappointed that the duty-free imports do not coincide with the 2005 import volume, the first year with quota free trade. In addition, it seems that the duty free import volume will not grow during the next five years.
Verrips emphasizes that it goes without saying that the duty free quantity allowed should adapt to the developments in the market including the increasingly outsourced EU production output.
Furthermore, F.A.I.R. considers that it is problematic to initially base the allocation of the duty free quantity on a “first-come, first served” basis. Under the Commissions proposal, it is only as of 2007 onwards that the allocation will take place on the basis of a company's individual 2005 import data and therefore become transparent.
Click here to read more details:
F.A.I.R. represents the interests of more than 100 EU footwear companies and includes companies such as Colombia (France, USA), Clarks (Great Britain), Deichmann (Germany), Wortmann (Germany), Leder & Schuh (Austria), Skechers (USA) and Vivarte (France).
Footwear Association of Importers and Retail chains
News 
marketing@alchempro.com
