Tuesday, January 11, 2011
(graphic: The Daily Show)
In an attempt to be more proactive with China over its exports of dangerous goods, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is opening its first overseas office, in Beijing.
The decision comes after numerous recalls in recent years of Chinese products that proved harmful, from children’s toys to housing drywall.
CPSC Chairwoman Inez Tenenbaum said the office, located in the U.S. embassy, will make it easier to raise concerns with Chinese officials about faulty products and better inform them of American regulations and standards.
Forty-five percent of consumer products and 90% of all toys sold in the United States come from China and Hong Kong (which is now part of China).
Recalls of Chinese products have dipped slightly, from 230 in 2009 to 220 last year.
-Noel Brinkerhoff
US Sets Up Consumer Product Safety Office in China (by Alexa Olesen, Associated Press)
US Sets Up Product Safety Office at Embassy in China (by Stephanie Ho, Voice of America)
Comments