GRTU urges rethink of anti-dumping duties

The GRTU Chamber for Small and Medium Enterprises has called on the government to reconsider its position and to vote against an extension of EU anti-dumping duties on footwear.

It urged the government to take a firm stand against the extension of the anti-dumping tariff regime imposed on importation of leather uppers from China and Vietnam into the EU. This in view of the final vote to be taken tomorrow.

Malta had already voted in favour the first time round in 2006 and as a result the anti-dumping tariffs came through. This in turn resulted in Malta's import bill increasing by around €72,000 a year. Having no domestic producers, this had no positive effects for Malta's consumers or for Malta's retailers, the GRTU said.

When called to vote for a further extension of 15 months Malta had in its preliminary vote abstained even though it was agreed locally that Malta would vote against, the GRTU said. There were reports in the international media that it would vote in favour tomorrow.

"The government should understand that it is of utmost importance that Malta votes 'No' to the extension as it will not only be damaging to the Maltese consumers but will also damage Malta's image and promotion as a centre for free trade into the European Union.

"A 'yes' vote or an abstention is a vote against Malta's best interest," the GRTU insisted.