The main stated reason for imposing the quota and
the tariffs is to protect former colonies by allowing them
to enjoy preferential access to the EU market. Other reasons implied have been the $300 million in tariff revenue resulting from the measures, as well as moving
against the ‘‘banana dollar’’ (reference to the U.S. control of the Latin American banana trade through its
multinationals). Belgium, Germany, and Holland have
objected to the measures not only because of the preference given to higher-cost, lower-quality bananas from
current and former colonies, but also because of the economic impact. The Belgians estimated an immediate
loss of 500 jobs in their port cities, which traditionally
have handled substantial amounts of Latin American
banana imports. Twice, the European Court of Justice
has rejected Germany’s challenge to the EU’s banana
policy. Even in the United Kingdom, where the preferential treatment has enjoyed widespread support, there
has been criticism of the decision.