China says it is "strongly dissatisfied" with the European Union's decision to extend anti-dumping duties on Chinese leather shoe products for another 15 months. Analysts, also say the EU's decision could have a negative impact on EU retailers and consumers.

The European Union approved a 15-month extension of anti-dumping duties on Chinese and Vietnamese leather shoes on Tuesday.

The decision was taken by a simple majority vote without discussion at a regular meeting of EU environment ministers.

Spokesman Yao Jian of China's Ministry of Commerce says EU footwear products are competitive and face no direct competition from Chinese products. He links the EU measure to trade protectionism and says China will appeal to the Word Trade Organization to protect the interests of Chinese companies.

The EU imposed anti-dumping duties of up to 16.5 percent against Chinese leather shoes in 2006. The measure was supposed to last two years.

The European Commission reviewed the case and left the duties intact before they expired in October, last year.

The Commission proposed an extension of the measure again earlier this month, despite the opposition from many member states.

The extension is being questioned by some EU retailers and consumers. They say consumers will have to pay more for their shoes in the next two years. The duties could mean less profit for some smaller retail companies that are trying to expand their business.