Imports from China have stabilised, but exports of Lithuanian goods to China are almost non-existent, Rimas Varkulevicius, president of the Association of Lithuanian Chambers of Industry, Trade and Crafts (LPPARA), has said.
“There are practically no exports because China has removed many Lithuanian producers from registers and imposed other restrictions, he said.
Some goods may still enter China via other countries.
“But this is wrong and China must answer to the World Trade Association and the European Union for not fulfilling its obligations under the trade treaty,” said Varkulevicius.
Meanwhile, Chinese imports to Lithuania have “normalised”. However, Chinese firms are now demanding full, up-front payment. But this often means importers may not receive the full shipment or encounter other problems.
“This is often the case with China,” Varkulevicius said.
“When the trade was normal, China used to require a 15-20% prepayment,” he added. “This takes a lot of money and there is always a risk.”
Lithuania’s relations with China nosedived after Taiwan opened a representative office in Vilnius. Beijing officials say the de facto embassy using the name “Taiwanese” is an attempt to recognise the island nation, which China considers part of its territory. (LRT/Business World Magazine)
