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Originally Posted by TiAgX5
I don't like it because of the total lack of EPA type regulation, and non-exisent human rights in China.
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I totally agree from that standpoint of lack of human rights, though, as you know, it is extremely rare to find the good conscience and respect for mankind that you have in a corporation and most individuals do not distinguish purchasing a lower cost product from the actions of the country of origin.
Your 90s experience was not unusual though many brands had already gone through the same problems from having followed the low labor costs from Japan and/or Korea. Having learned the hard way they are adept at developing contracts that are defendable. Often they are only interested in a joint venture so that there is also in-country protection and skin in the game. And, there are now many experts that can guide new companies through the contract negotiations and how to get the product delivered per specifications. China by far has been the most difficult market thus far to get it right and keep it going right.
Joint ventures are certainly not a sure thing. The odds are much better if the joint venture agreement clearly gives the buyer right to have the critical quality control and Sr. management onsite at all times and the joint venture is also selling in the domestic market.
Where it is still very very risky to purchase is from Ebay, where the products are off brands or can be easily be counterfeit. This is especially true of products where the barriers to entry are low and the product is labor intensive. When the original is produced in China the volume produced will become public knowledge. China being so huge, there are thousands upon thousands of copycat cottage shops that produce products that will not measure up to the original. Where only 1% of the total volume may be extremely lucrative to them. With the marketing and advertising costs virtually eliminated by Ebay, imitations can now easily reach a worldwide market. As always, buyer beware.