The EU will increase the inspection of China's stone products exported to Europe

Liu Yang's concerns are not without reason. According to recent reports from the EU, starting April 1, 2013, stricter inspections of wood packaging for Chinese stone products exported to Europe will be implemented, with sampling rates potentially reaching as high as 90%. This increase in scrutiny means longer customs clearance times and higher costs, which is a major blow to stone export companies already struggling due to the European debt crisis. **EU orders are at a freezing point**. Fujian Province, home to over 500 stone export companies, more than 10 major ports, and numerous building materials markets, has become China’s top stone production and export hub. Yet, despite its significance, the province now faces an export crisis driven by declining European demand. “The drop in European orders has become the norm,” Liu Yang said. “Some companies have even faced order shortages during peak season.” He added that many local exporters have been complaining to the Chamber of Commerce about the impact of the debt crisis on the European market. Local consumers are spending less, and stone, often considered a non-essential item for home decoration, has seen a sharp decline in demand. One company used to rely entirely on European exports, but now only half of its output is being sold overseas, with the rest redirected to the domestic market. “We haven’t shipped anything to Europe recently,” said Wang Sheng, general manager of Yunfu Weisheng Stone Co., Ltd. “The European market is tough—high inspection standards, low demand, and the crisis has left things stagnant.” **The increased sampling inspections are making things worse**. Liu Yang emphasized that while Fujian’s stone industry is well-established, its main competitive edge remains cost-effectiveness. With rising material and labor costs, and a shrinking export market, this advantage is under threat. Shen Yulu from the China Stone Industry Association noted that the most direct effect of higher sampling rates is extended customs processing times, which increases operational costs and worsens an already difficult situation. Merchants are now gathering to discuss how to respond, but no clear solutions have emerged yet. Wang Sheng admitted that wooden packaging is standard for stone exports, and companies are already complying with EU regulations. “I don’t know what else they want to check?” he asked. Liu Yang also mentioned that so far, there has been no indication that other countries are facing similar measures. He speculated that the EU might be targeting Chinese stone imports, especially given the strong competition from cost-effective Chinese products in a weak market. However, he admitted it's hard to say for sure.

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