Retailers in the EU have expressed worries that shelves will be empty and prices will increase following the EU’s decision to limit Chinese imports of sweaters and trousers. Following this week’s move to curb imports due to a breach in agreed quotas, shipments of Chinese goods have now been blocked and retailers now fear that stock levels will fall below demand and shelves will remain empty.

The goods that have been blocked are said to be worth between €200 million €250 million at cost price, which has already been paid for by European retailers.

As a result of this, European Trade Commissioner has agreed to hold crisis talks as concerns have also now been raised over Chinese imports of bras, T-shirts and blouses which have also nearly reached their quota limits.