IN REVERSE: An Australian importer recalled 23,000 Chinese-made cars after asbestos was found inside engine and exhaust gaskets, the nation's consumer watchdog said Wednesday. The cars were made by Great Wall Motor Co. and Chery Automobile.

UNDER THE HOOD: Customs officers initially detected the asbestos in imported spare parts, which sparked a wider investigation, the consumer commission said.

UNEXPECTED DETOUR: The recall is a blow to Great Wall and Chery, which have been looking to expand their businesses beyond the domestic market.