BEIJING - China publicized a guideline Wednesday to improve its early warning and response systems to ensure the safety and quality of exported and imported goods.

The country will set up a national risk assessment center for exported and imported goods, while an expert committee and national labs will be established to evaluate the quality and safety of products, according to the guideline issued by the State Council.

A four-tier color-coded warning system for quality safety will be developed, with a red alert being the highest level in terms of severity, followed by orange, yellow and blue.

Response measures will be taken, including restricting or banning exports and imports, sequestration and recall of defective products, according to the guideline.

The country will better regulate the recall of defective products. Manufacturers and importers should voluntarily recall defective products, and those try to conceal defects or refuse to comply with regulations will be held accountable.