TNAG-0046-FCO40-82-Britain-s-entry-into-EEC-effect-on-trade-with-Hong-Kong-1967 — Page 84

FCO40 Hong Kong Department Records 聯邦事務部香港部檔案 All

00032.

C.F. 323

CONFIDENTIAL

- 5 -

Exporters confirm that, in addition, the reverse preferences created by the U.K.'s entry into the E.E.C. could weaken Hong Kong's competitive position vis-a-vis .E.C. suppliers (such as Italy whose woollen knitwear industry is particularly strong), although present performance in W. Germany suggests that Hong Kong has succeeded to some extent in competing against Italy despite the latter's E.E.C. advantages.

Jackats, jumpers, sweaters, cardigans and pullovers, knitted or crocheted, wholly or mainly of wool.

women's and girls' wear (841 465)

As girls' garments were classified under children's wear" in 1961, no exact export figures for this item were available for that year.

In 1966, the principal markets were

-

Value

U.S.A.

$144.4 million

Tariff

21% a.v. + 25¢ per lb. to 32% a.v. + 37.5¢ per lb.

15.3% a.v.

W. Germany

Netherlands

U.K.

$91.3 million

$29.9 million

$7.9 million

20% - 21% a.v.

out of total exports valued at $362.1 million.

nil 13/6d. per lb. or 30% a.v. whichever is the higher

Although only about 8% of total exports goes to the U.K., the absolute value ($27.9 million) is substantial and loss of preference in the U.K. could cause difficulties. While present performance in the U.S.A. and W. Germeny would seem to indicate that Hong Kong should be able to compete without preference, exports to the U.K. could suffer as a result of reverse preferences favouring E.E.C. suppliers, particularly Italy. Manufactures stress that women's and girls' oollen knitwear is especially susceptible to fashion changes in respect of which Italy has decided advantages over Hong Kong.

Outer garments, knitted or crocheted, not elastic nor rubberised, wholly or mainly of wool, infants' wear (841 486)

This item was not separately classified in 1961.

In 1966, the principal markets were

U.K.

Value

$1.0 million

W. Germany

Netherlands

$505 thousand

$237 thousand

U.S.A.

$201 thousand

CONFIDENTIAL

Tariff

nil

19s. per lb. or 30% a.v. which- ever is the higher

17.1% a.v.

20% a.v.

32% a.v. + 37.56 per 1b.

42.5% a.v.

Comments

Approved members can add comments, bookmarks, and private notes.

No comments yet.

Private Research Note

Private notes are available after approval.