The new fear of Chinese goods is rooted in the recent recalls of Chinese toys, pet food and tyres. Though only a fraction of Chinese products were involved in the recalls, it has scarred the US psyche enough to trigger a China phobia. The resultant threat to Chinese exporters notwithstanding, the task of rebuilding the ‘Made in China’ brand opens up enormous opportunities for the country to win back the trust of global consumers.
Exporters are already reeling from the fear psychosis gripping the Western markets. Many foreign importers these days ask for additional inspections, lengthening the product cycle and pushing up costs substantially.