Re: (some) HP calc prices in Brazil Message #6 Posted by Ren on 16 Jan 2002, 10:16 a.m., in response to message #5 by Vieira, Luiz C. (Brazil)
Yes, this is getting Off Topic, and into the forbidden realm of politics (for this forum).
Brasil may not export "high tech" as you say, but I feel it is in any country's best interest to develop higher technology. Countries that develop and manufacture higher technology stand to receive money exporting to the US and
Western Europe which have all but forsaken their manufacturing for cheaper foreign goods. I believe the US currently buys $9 Billion of goods each month from China. If any country can develop its workforce and manufacturing base to compete with China, it stands to profit considerably. So, how does this lead to higher calculator prices in Brasil? IF these higher prices are because of high tariffs, it prevents Brasillian Reals from going to China for cheap calcs and keeps that money in Brasil to assist its manufacturing infrastructure.
Then again, the higher prices may be the result of profiteering by a few individuals who have been "assured" of closed markets by unscrupulous government officials.
Back in the 1980's I applauded the influx of cheap goods from China into the US, because I could buy more stuff with my money. Now, I see how my earlier purchases of foreign goods helped decimate America's manufacturing capability and that directly affects me as an Electronic Technician. There are now fewer factories for me to work at, and many electronic devices are too cheap to repair economically, both of which mean fewer jobs for me and my co-workers.
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