The recent scandals about poisoned baby milk, contaminated pet food and dangerous toys from China have raised questions about manufacturing standards in the country that has become factory to the world.

Drawing on his extensive experience as a liaison between importers and manufacturers in China, Paul Midler's Poorly Made in China provides an on-the-ground view of how the Chinese manufacturing industry works and an insight into why goods produced in China tend to be of lower quality.

The Economist recently selected the title for its list of Best Books of 2009

The author  will share his experiences and insights, and discuss the challenges that Western importers face with suppliers in China.