India's trade minister said on Friday the government's decision to ban imports of Chinese toys was taken on the grounds of public safety and the move was compatible with World Trade Organisation rules.
Last month, India banned imports of several types of toys from China for six months "in the public interest" but without giving further details of why, a move that pleased local manufacturers but shocked importers.
"The question of banning Chinese toys was on the grounds of public health and safety," Trade Minister Kamal Nath told reporters after a conference.
"It is a matter which is of public concern rather than commercial, and public concern has to be given priority over commercial concern," he added.
On Wednesday, the China Daily newspaper reported that China may ask the WTO to investigate the six-month import ban, citing a source close to the matter.
The Chinese government will probably ask the global trade regulator to look into whether the move violates its laws, the state-owned paper said, quoting a source who asked not to be named.
"Of course, it is for China to establish this," Nath said.
"We are fully compliant with WTO ... Before we take any action we make it sure it is WTO compatible," he added.
Source : REUTERS INDIA