Mattel Inc., the world's biggest toymaker, announced on Monday that its net income in the third quarter this year rose to 238.1 million U.S. dollars from 236.8 million in the same period last year.

Mattel, based in El Segundo near Los Angeles, also reported that its worldwide net sales rose by 6 percent in the third quarter, with domestic gross sales growing 4 percent and international gross sales increasing 7 percent.

Among its core brands, worldwide gross sales for Barbie was down 1 percent as were Hot Wheels, but Fisher-Price products were up 7 percent and American Girl brands was 11 percent higher.

"In light of the recent global economic environment, our business performed well in the quarter," said Mattel Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Robert A. Eckert.

"The all-important holiday season, however, is ahead of us, and fortunately, we've got some of the industry's hottest toys that deliver terrific play value for both parent and child."