This degree of specificity is already required by law for automobiles and textile products. Other companies have voluntarily adopted similar labeling policies. The FTC's proposed change in labeling standards is a step backwards for consumers' rights and education. The Commission should provide the most accurate information possible regarding country of origin and other issues within its purview. When consumers decide which factors they wish to consider in making their purchasing decisions, they should be able to have confidence in the information provided to them.
Consumers do care.
If globalization results in fewer products meeting this standard, an educated consumer will still be able to select those products with the highest American content. If consumers' interest in buying American-made goods is communicated to manufacturers, more production might be brought back to the United States. Consumers will only be educated if labels are honest and informative.