China Protests US Halt to China Seafood

These issues in are clear examples of relying on the word of a vendor and use of mere "paper compliance". The Global marketplace has proven that without rigid testing and both regualr and random inspections the
standards expected by the Western world simply will not be met. This applies
to Eastern Europe as well - many will remember the tainted wine from former Iron Curtain countries.

While this will certainly add to the cost of the product, in light of recent events it is becoming crystal clear that American Consumers are perfectly willing to pay a few pennies more per dollar spent for quality products.

Those who insist on "cheap at any cost" (ie: the now famous 6 cent per tube toothpaste from China) will pay with their health.

It is important for manufacturors to at least reveal where their products are made, the steps taken to ensure strict quality control and the safety, purity, and source of the ingredients used.

Those who pay attention to the the news reports can see the beginnings of a grass-roots movement by Consumers, which may well turn into a unfortunate backlash.

Those companies who position themselves on "higher moral ground" with compliance measures, rigid testing, and full disclosure will certainly find themselves at a market advantage.

Those who do not will certainly be facing an uphill battle against the potential Consumer outrage.