Vice-Premier Wu Yi has ordered quality supervisors and inspectors nationwide to be more aware of the challenges posed by the internationalization and politicization of quality problems.

 

She made the remarks at a national quality supervision and inspection work conference yesterday in Beijing. Wu also called on manufacturers to improve their goods.

 

She recognized the successes of the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine has had since it was set up seven years ago.

 

Wu said more should be done to improve the market access system for products and the recall and notification system for defective goods.

 

Work to improve the safety of food and consumer goods should forge ahead, particularly during the Olympics, Wu said.

 

The quality supervision and inspection of both imported and exported items should be reinforced, she said.

 

Wu said communication and international cooperation should be improved in the area of quality supervision and inspections.

 

Last year, the "Made in China" brand experienced a confidence crisis, triggered by the recall of China-made toys by Mattel Inc of the United States. The incident was followed by others in which Chinese exporters encountered quality problems with toys, toothpaste and food.

 

(Xinhua News Agency January 4, 2008)