Th e recall of an estimated 20 million Chinese-made

toys by Mattel on August 14, 2007 shocked many parents

in North America. Coming in the wake of reports

about other defective products made in China,

the latest recall generated severe reactions. In a poll

conducted by Embassy Magazine, 75% of respondents

reported that they had an unfavourable view

of Chinese-made goods. In another poll by Zogby,

close to 80% of respondents reported that they were

apprehensive about buying goods made in China.

Nearly two- thirds (63%) of the respondents reported

that they were likely to join in a boycott of Chinese

goods until the Chinese government improved its

regulation of manufacturers. Discussing the recall,

the Chief Executive Offi cer of Mattel, Robert Eckert,

said “we wouldn’t have faced this problem if our suppliers

followed the rules.” At a recent summit meeting

in Canada, the prime minister of Canada, and the

presidents of the US and Mexico decided to crack

down on unsafe goods, particularly those designed

for children.

Th e popular sentiment against Chinese-made

products potentially has serious implications for

global trade. Chinese-made goods such as toothpaste,

pet food, toys, tires and jewelry have been found to be

of poor quality or even dangerous. Th is is a problem

encompassing a number of industries and aff ecting