Brussels, 27/10/2006 (Agence Europe) - The Commission's new trade strategy on China (see EUROPE 9292-9294) has been well received by European industry, which welcomes the priority given to access to the Chinese market. “It is important that European companies do have market access in China, otherwise the defensive pressures in Europe will only grow further,” said Arnaldo Abruzzini, the Secretary General of Eurochambers, the Association of European Chambers of Commerce. Mr Abruzzini also welcomed the Commission's promise to provide additional support for European companies, especially SMEs, wishing to set up in China. In this context, Eurochambers suggests the Commission launches a specific programme to support exports to China by SMEs, similar to EU Gateway to Japan. Eurochambers, in the same way as the manufacturers' union Unifab, also welcomes the Commission's firmness on protection of intellectual property rights and combating piracy and counterfeiting. Unifab appreciates notably the renewed political impetus given by the Commission. (eh)