Even as European ports are piled with massive Chinese textile imports, the EU industry has criticized Mandelson for restricting textile quotas from that country.

At the other end retailers are crying for Chinese garments and textiles that are awaiting entry in the EU market.

Controversy began immediately after EU Trade Chief Peter Mandelson signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with China on June 10 on restrictions in certain apparel and textile categories.

Meanwhile, Chinese exporters ensured despatches of consignments in large numbers to beat the deadline, which has raised the ruckus.

Retail industry insiders an estimated 43 million items of clothing were stranded around Europe and this would affect all major non-food retailers due to the implementation of quotas.

All hopes now rest on Mandelson''s meeting with his Chinese counterpart and the outcome therefrom.