Mattel’s Go Diego Go animal rescue boat was recalled amid fears over lead paint.

China has made “considerable progress” in improving the safety of the toys it exports, according to a report by the European Commission (EC).

Meglena Kuneva, European Commissioner for Consumer Protection, outlined the findings of the report at a press conference held in Brussels today.

The rapid stocktaking exercise was undertaken to review the strengths and weaknesses of the consumer product safety mechanisms currently in place in Europe, using the toys recalls over the summer as a case study.

The investigation found that in the three months to the end of September, 184 ‘new’ cases were investigated, compared with just 84 cases between January 2006 and July 2007.

In 116 cases, specific measures were adopted (43% of cases), whilst 93 export bans were put in place (35% of cases). In 14 cases, supervision was strengthened over the Chinese manufacturer and in nine corrective action was taken by the Chinese manufacturer and exporter.

In addition, Ms Kuneva highlighted the fact that Chinese authorities have indicated that by December 2007 they will have in place a domestic alert system modelled on the EC’s Rapid Alert System for Dangerous Goods (RAPEX) system to co-ordinate work with regions and increase effective cooperation.

Millions of Chinese-made toys have been recalled so far this year amid fears over loose magnets and high levels of lead in paint. US toy firm Mattel has been at the centre of the recalls, pulling toys from its Polly Pocket, Batman Magna, Doggie Daycare and One Piece ranges.

Looking forward to Christmas, Ms Kuneva said she could not give “100% guarantees”, but added she would assure: “100% commitment to keep the pressure on to ensure the highest possible level of safety for citizens.”

By Natasha Piscitelli