Mandelson to unblock Chinese goods

EU trade commissioner Peter Mandelson said yesterday he would make proposals to EU member States today to release millions of euro’s worth of Chinese-made garments stuck in European ports.

The 25-nation EU has been split on how to deal with the problem, with Mr Mandelson torn between protecting local textile industries from Chinese competition and ensuring shops are not left with empty shelves by Christmas.

“The commission is making proposals to our member States tomorrow morning to begin proceedings to unblock all the goods which are currently held at customs,” he said in an interview.