Austrian officials have suggested that provisional anti-dumping duties imposed on Chinese and Vietnamese footwear in April be extended for another year with a review at the end of this period.
President of the Footwear Association of Importers and Retailchains (FAIR) Paul Verrips said, "This suggestion does not make sense at all […] and would have serious negative effects on the European shoe industry and its customers." He added, "It is still the same proposal that has already been dismissed by 14 EU Member States, including Austria. Only the time-limitation has been added."
Austria's change of position could be linked with Italian Prime Minister Prodi's personal intervention. Italy and some other southern European states hope to return some Far East shoe production back to Europe through the anti-dumping measures. Mr Verrips strongly warned that this would not happen and pointed out that provisional duties, which have been in effect for six months, have produced no positive outcome. Indeed, he claims that import prices on Chinese shoes rose by 12% percent and 19% on Vietnamese shoes in the first four months of fiscal 2006 with a negative impact on consumers in Europe.
Austria’s suggestion, intended to form a compromise, evoked disapproval throughout the association of European shoe importers as it is seen as a mere delay to any long-term solution.
Mr Verrips believes the EU Commission is determined to implement anti-dumping measures, despite claims that they clash with the interests of the European shoe industry and consumers.
FAIR represents more than 100 footwear importers and retailers including Columbia (France, USA), Clarks (UK), Deichmann (Germany), Leder & Schuh (Austria) and Skechers (USA).
