The European Parliament Ceramics Forum (EPCF) is a cross pary pan-European discussion group with the aim to promote the ceramics industry in Europe.

With the industry facing so many new challenges, the forum provides an outlet to exchange views, identify areas of key significance and, most importantly, take action on behalf of the industry and the people who work in this traditional and crucial sector.

Bring Back the Backstamp (19.04.07)

EPCF and stakeholders in the ceramics industry across Europe have united in a call upon the German Presidency, and other EU countries, to back a "Mark of Origin" proposal on specific imported goods from outside the European Union.

EPCF believe that such a backstamp would inform the consumer exactly where the product came from, and to tackle the problem of counterfeiting.

Although the proposal has received support from a number of top MEPs and the Commission, it has yet to be approved by Germany, who object the proposal, and from other EU Member Governments including the UK. There disapproval has voiced the concerns of manufactuing sectors who have no history of "back stamping" such as the footwear and clothing industry.

Malcolm Harbour MEP, President in Office of the EPCF, said he was "committed to the proposal which has been on the table for nearly two years. The Mark of Origin proposal  would help our struggling  ceramic industries, not only in North Staffordshire but across Europe as well."

"Mark of Origin" (20.04.07)

The all party EPCF met with representatives of the EU ceramics industry to look at the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.

Counterfeiting remains a big concern for tableware and tile producers and the Forum warmly welcomed new proposals from the Commission to step up action against pirated products, paricularly from China where an estimated 70% of all fakes originate. Later this year, the Forum is planning  a fact-finding mission to the UK's largest container port in Felixstowe where thousands of counterfeit products are seized every year.

The Forum has reaffirmed its support proposals for a mandatory "Mark of Orgin" for ceramics products, calling on the EU Council to finally approve the proposals that will ensure consumers know the origin of the product. Last year, a survery conducted by the European Commission found 77% of respondents felt they have occassionally or always been mislead by the country of origin information on product they bought.

The European Emissions Trading Scheme was also high on the agenda. The industry has expressed many reservations as the scheme extends its reach to more ceramics installations. But there has been a welcome improvement in the Commission's consultation process.

Malcolm Harbour MEP, who chaired the forum, said, "this meeting illustrates the value of the Forum as a platform for industry and trade unions to engage in crucial legislative initiatives on EU level. MEPs and the Commission are keen to listen to the industry's concerns, but the industry has to become more proactive on issues that will shape its future outlook."

Useful information about EPCF

European Parliament Ceramics Forum

www.epceramicsforum.org