China hails WTO's end to textile quotas
(xinhuanet.com)
Updated: 2004-10-19 09:58

The ongoing Chinese Export Commodities Fair, or Guangzhou Fair, is an effective platform for both suppliers and buyers to showcase their latest and finest products. Some foreign entrepreneurs said they are expecting to increase their purchases in China after the elimination of the textile quotas, CCTV.com reported Monday.

Chinese textile maker said, "If the quotas are removed, we will save a lot of money. It's a good opportunity for both suppliers and buyers."

Chinese trade officials said China welcomes the elimination of textile quotas beginning next year. They also say China is firmly against any attempt by World Trade Organization members to block China's export of textile products.

Some textile makers are concerned about the new protectionist measures to restrict textile imports and exports, especially since China could have the largest profits after quotas are removed next year.

Cao Xinyu, vice chairman of China Chamber of Commerce for Imp/Exp of Textiles, said, "The worry is reasonable for the United States textile industry has posted a petition to limit Chinese textile products in the US market. We hope the trade liberalization will soon be realized."

The official also said China is preparing for unrestricted competition in the textile industry next year, as the WTO abolishes global textile quotas. Officials also note the Chinese government will be vigilant for new forms of protectionism. These will include a spate of safeguards, as well as anti-dumping and anti-subsidy measures,to protect free trade in textiles from being undermined.

China is one of the largest textile producers in the world. And it's currently focusing on improving its quality of products rather than increasing its export volume. Moreover, regarding the most pressing issue, the price of exported textiles is expected to become somewhat cheaper.

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