An American-based research team says several manufacturers in Asia continue to produce paint containing dangerously high levels of lead.
A University of Cincinnati survey showed that half the paint sold in China, India and Malaysia had 30 times as much lead as allowed in the US.
Singapore, which has the same restrictions as the US, fared better.
The researchers said lead-based paint posed a serious health risk, particularly to children.
They called for a worldwide ban on its use.