Why is it that so many things we import from China stink? I am not speaking of bug spray that is used on imports to make sure no strange bugs enter the country. I am talking about the smell of petroleum. Just about everything I buy that is made in China reeks of petroleum. I have had to throw out a laptop cooler, and a billfold which, despite airing and washing, continued to reek for months. I bought a bookcase that aired for a month and still reeked. I am now used to it but can still smell it when I stand very close. I have to wonder what that does to my health. Today I noticed the same smell on a electronic reader cover I bought. So what is it the Chinese do or do not do when producing goods that leaves them stinking? I can only imagine what a Chinese home or office must smell like. No wonder so many Chinese are getting cancer. It really worries me about all the toys made by the Chinese and how they may affect the health of the children who play with them.
Speaking of Chinese goods, I am reminded of Japanese goods we imported in the 1950s. Back then if it was made in Japan, it was junk. Once the Japanese developed transistor radios, it seemed as if there was a deluge of Japanese goods. Like Chinese goods today, most of those early Japanese goods were pretty junky. Over time, Japanese goods improved and often surpassed the quality of US goods. Of course the Japanese had the advantage of stealing a lot of American technology. They then improved upon it. Today, though, Japan is a leader in electronics and auto development and production. Perhaps the Chinese will go the same way. Lord knows they have stolen a lot of technology.
I hate to buy things made in China for a variety of reasons, quality and odor just being two of them. The Chinese government is another. I think it one of the most despicable governments. Not as irresponsibly unpredictable as Iran or North Korea, but still bad. Until it becomes a democracy and until a system of laws and procedures are in place that encourage and safeguard capitalism and free trade, I think it foolish to invest in China or buy Chinese if you have other options.
I don't see this happening any time soon. That is too bad for the Chinese people.
I also dislike the lack of human rights accorded the Chinese citizenry. I have friends who were lucky enough to leave China, some legally, some had to sneak out. They are now US citizens and are proof positive that the United States is still the land of opportunity if you are willing to work . Hearing their stories confirms my impression of the Chinese government.
Then of course there is the issue of the US being in debt to a communist country. That is our own fault, but I still do not like owing the Chinese.
I guess imported Chinese goods stink in a multitude of ways. I would rather spend more for US made goods than buy Chinese. But already that is sometimes impossible to do.
