As the world emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, the discussion surrounding the origins of our goods is more prevalent than ever before. In recent years, the United States government has restricted the flow of imported goods from countries that include China imposing steep tariffs that make some consumer goods unattainable.
While the overarching intent was to boost production and profits in the domestic manufacturing sector, the result has been a little more nuanced. For example, countries like China, the subject of the most punitive penalties, have found ways to skirt the regulations by outsourcing their manufacturing. Now, their goods are made in underdeveloped countries that are mostly ill-equipped to meet even the lowest standards of quality, durability, and sustainability.
Now, international trade is not a bad thing. It gives us access to a more diverse range of products, and it supports competition, but it’s not good for everybody. Tariffs and trade barriers address many significant issues ranging from poor product quality to national security, misleading or non-compliant labeling, and threats to our health. Regardless of the political situation, many of these restrictions are in place for a reason. Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean those problems are gone for good.
Beyond the rhetoric, the fact is that Americans gave up trust in Chinese-made products a long time ago. In a post-pandemic world, the “Made-In-China” brand has lost even more ground as it represents, to some, the unfortunate reality that we’re all living right now.
As trade starts to ramp up again, we will likely see a lot of hastily-made, unsafe, and ecologically unsustainable products coming our way from all around the globe. These manufacturers are rushing to meet the anticipated demand, and may well cut corners to do so. It is up to us, as individuals, to choose wisely.
How about flooring?
More than before we notice some European manufactured flooring products showcasing their products in our market. With (generally) superior quality in milling and finishing process, brands presenting some attractive and competitive alternative to the Chinese counterparts. The pandemic has changed the way we live. Going forward, there is no question that we will be more conscious of our surroundings and the products we use. With that in mind, would the Chinese-made flooring products retain their strength presence?
