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Please read Case 5: “Lead in Toys and Drinking Water” available in your e-book (page no.615), and answer the following questions:

1. Should there be a global standard for toy manufacturing? What are some of the benefits and what are some of the drawbacks of a potential global quality and manufacturing standard? (marks: 2, minimum words: 150 words)

2. With some 80 percent of the toys sold in the United States being manufactured in China, should the United States place greater emphasis on its toy-trading relationship with China? Could the United States control China’s manufacturing more than it does today? How? (marks: 2, word limit: minimum 150 words)

3. The Flint, Michigan, water crisis highlighted a major issue in the United States regarding old lead-based pipes used to transport water to the community. This came to light in Flint due to the failure of applying corrosion inhibitors to the water when the city leadership decided to switch water sources. What global fail-safe mechanisms should be enforced on water consumption, and other consumable products, to safeguard from potential lead poisoning? (mark: 1, word limit: minimum 150 words)

Paper For Above Instructions

Global standards in toy manufacturing are essential to ensure the safety and quality of toys across international markets. The argument for a global manufacturing standard hinges on the protection it offers children against hazardous materials, such as lead in toys, which can result in severe health problems. Implementing universal safety standards would reduce the risk associated with toy production, ensuring that all toys meet strict guidelines regardless of where they are manufactured. This would lead to enhanced consumer confidence, as parents would be assured of their children's safety when interacting with toys.

However, establishing a global standard also has its drawbacks. Different countries have varying capabilities in terms of manufacturing processes, technologies, and resources. A one-size-fits-all approach could impose undue burdens on manufacturers in developing countries, potentially leading to increased production costs. Consequently, this might limit the accessibility of affordable toys for families, as manufacturers might pass these costs onto consumers. Additionally, enforcement of global standards could be complicated by regulatory differences, corruption, and varying compliance levels among countries.

Given that around 80 percent of toys sold in the United States are manufactured in China, it is crucial for the U.S. to reassess its toy-trading relationship with its largest supplier. Enhancing trade policies and quality control inspections could lead to better oversight of Chinese manufacturing practices. The U.S. could implement stricter import regulations that require compliance with safety standards, effectively holding Chinese manufacturers accountable for the safety of their products. Furthermore, bilateral agreements could be established that promote transparency in manufacturing processes and safety compliance, ultimately aiming to safeguard consumers.

However, wrestling control over China's manufacturing practices proves to be a complex challenge due to the global nature of trade. The United States can exert influence through negotiations and trade agreements, but ultimately, it is China's responsibility to uphold its manufacturing standards. Collaboration between the U.S. and China in creating a shared set of safety regulations could help to bridge the gap between supply and demand while ensuring that toys entering the U.S. market are safe for children.

The Flint, Michigan, water crisis underscores the importance of implementing fail-safe mechanisms to protect communities from lead poisoning from contaminated water sources. Governments across the globe should prioritize creating comprehensive strategies focused on the prevention of lead contamination in water systems. This can include regular monitoring of old infrastructure to identify risks, investing in the replacement of lead pipes, and initiating public health campaigns to educate communities about lead exposure's dangers.

Moreover, international collaborations could pave the way for establishing baseline safety regulations for all consumable products, including water. For instance, the World Health Organization (WHO) could outline global standards for water safety, compelling nations to comply with strict monitoring and testing of water supplies. This global approach to water safety would not only protect consumers from lead poisoning but also enhance public health on a wider scale.

In conclusion, while there are notable advantages to implementing global standards for toy manufacturing and ensure public safety regarding drinking water, it is critical to tread carefully. Balancing safety with accessibility, alongside international cooperation, will be key in guaranteeing that the products available in our markets are safe for consumers, particularly the most vulnerable—children.

References

• Lavin, F. (2017). China Marketing: Five Keys for a Crowded Market. Forbes.
• Carlson, B. (2013). Why Big American Businesses Fail in China. GlobalPost.
• Atsmon, Y., Magni, M., Li, L., & Liao, W. (2012). Meet the 2020 Chinese Consumer. McKinsey Consumer & Shopper Insights.
• The US–China Business Council. (2012). Exports to China by State 2000–2011.
• Groth, A. (2011). Best Buy’s Overseas Strategy Is Failing in Europe and China. Business Insider.
• Stack, L. (2017). Lead Levels in Flint Water Drop, but Residents Still Can’t Drink It. The New York Times.
• Robertson, A. (2017). Toy Fair Trends Reveal Movies, Collectibles and Tech Drive $26 Billion Toy Industry. Forbes.
• Moore, M. (2011). One-Third of Chinese Toys Contain Heavy Metals. The Telegraph.
• Kavilanz, P. (2007). China to Eliminate Lead Paint in Toy Exports. CNN Money.
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2014). Accessed March 8, 2014.