Made in America

Having arrived here a couple of days ago full of thoughts about the falling dollar and the improving state of American trade, it is fascinating to observe at first hand that perceptions of low quality in Chinese products are the issue that seems to be driving consumers away from imports.

Recent recalls of badly designed toys and toxic toothpaste seem to have driven a surge of interest in the "Made in America" label. Websites such as usmadetoys.com offer lists of US products that don'tbite or poison you. This site offers an eco-friendly four tips on buying lead-free toys made in the US. Or look at the poll on Chinese goods on the website of Duncan Hunter, a presidential candidate.

The mass media is talking the issue up. I was surprised to hear advice offered this morning that one advantage of buying goods online is that if they are recalled, you will automatically get an e-mail telling you, without you having had to register your purchase.

(excerpt...see http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/thereporters/evandavis/2007/11/made_in_america.html)

HUNTER ENCOURAGES AMERICANS TO BUY AMERICAN-MADE PRODUCTS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Duncan Hunter (R-CA), ranking Republican on the House Armed Services Committee, announced the introduction of the All-American Holiday Act in the U.S. House of Representatives. The measure, H.Res. 831, encourages Americans to purchase American-made products this holiday season.

“As Americans head to the stores to purchase gifts for family and friends this holiday season, they will have the choice of buying either foreign, imported products, or those which are made here in America,” said Congressman Hunter. “By choosing to purchase American-made products, consumers will be helping to strengthen our nation’s economy, protect American workers and stimulate our deteriorating manufacturing base.

“Additionally, the overall quality of imported products, particularly those originating from China, continues to raise considerable safety and health concerns. When purchasing American-made products, consumers can also take comfort in knowing that the health and safety of their loved ones will not be threatened. This is because America maintains the most stringent manufacturing standards and safest regulatory system in the world.

“While we must correct the unfair trade policies that continue to disadvantage our manufactures, we can begin taking steps towards revitalizing American industry this holiday season by simply buying products that are made in America.”

H.Res. 831 has been referred to the House Energy and Commerce Committee for further consideration.

(http://www.house.gov/apps/list/speech/ca52_hunter/Buy_American_Christmas.shtml)