A recent series of product safety scares involving products ranging from pet food to toothpaste to toys has shaken consumer confidence in made-in-China goods. Chinese officials have complained officially to both the Canadian and U.S. governments that their goods are being unfairly targeted as a means of trade protectionism, but agreed to improve safety and quality inspections in the country's manufacturing sector.

 The Angus-Reid survey showed:

• 43 per cent of respondents are buying more made-in-Canada goods because of the recall.
• 81 per cent said it's impossible to avoid products made in China.
• 83 per cent said Chinese products sold in Canada should carry a label of origin stamp.
• 62 per cent said Canada should consider a ban on Chinese goods until China establishes more stringent safety controls.

The online survey, conducted on 11 and 12 September, included 1,171 respondents, with a margin of error of +/- 2.9 per cent.