"Trade is about facilitating commercial exchange across borders and protectionist measures at EU borders will automatically trigger defensive measures and close export and investment markets", says a top official of a European trade body.
"This would harm the competitiveness of European companies, increase business costs and final prices for consumers", Jan Eggert – Director General of the 1,400 members strong and foremost body - Foreign Trade Association, adds.
Jan Eggert who leads the Association's activities with regards to international trade, in a chat with fibre2fashion discusses importance of free trade within European trade industry and the current trade practices therein.
When quizzed on importance of European trade policies on global textile and apparel sector, Jan Eggert says, "The EU is the largest trading block in the world and a massive net importer of garments and textile products.
"The direction in which EU trade policy is shaped is therefore crucial for the prosperity of the textile and apparel industry, not only in Europe but globally. In a world of complex and globalised supply chains, European retailers are dependent on a favourable political and legal environment which promotes free trade and open borders.
"With regards to its importance, it is of outmost importance that the EU develops right policies addressing the sector's needs and easing trade and customs procedures, especially with sourcing countries whose economies strongly rely on textile manufacturing."
"European retailers are calling upon EU policymakers to commit to a strong trade agenda with ambitious and clear goals that facilitate international commerce and open markets", Jan Eggert informs by saying, when asked about demands from European retailers.
