CEC presses for reforms in EU India talks
The European Footwear Confederation (CEC) said it has reiterated concerns about barriers facing exporters as talks on the EU–India Free Trade Agreement move toward a conclusion.
Representatives took part in the latest meeting of the Market Access Advisory Committee, where they drew attention to continuing obstacles for companies seeking access to the Indian market.
The organisation said India’s Quality Control Orders for footwear remain a major difficulty for European manufacturers. It argued that the rules go beyond internationally recognised ISO standards without clear justification. According to the confederation, the requirements place heavy administrative burdens on exporters, create long delays, and increase compliance costs for small and medium sized companies.
The group said it is particularly concerned that testing must be carried out solely by Indian authorities, which complicates and slows export procedures. It called on India to recognise certifications issued by accredited laboratories and certification bodies in the EU to bring the process in line with international practice.
The confederation noted recent progress made by the European Commission and the EU Delegation to India in tackling cross sector issues linked to Quality Control Orders, which affect several industries beyond footwear. It said it hopes the final stages of the free trade negotiations will produce measures that support equal conditions for both sides by removing the Quality Control Orders for footwear, eliminating tariffs, and applying EU rules for product origin.
