They do not have a very large share of the American market, but they're trying to increase their share at the expense of other manufacturers of automobiles. For now, U.S. made cars for selling well. In particular, sales of gas and guzzling sport utility vehicles and light trucks have benefited from relatively low gasoline prices, another byproduct of global economic conditions - reduced demand in Asia has led to an increase supply. Low interest rates on loans, spurred in part by the Asia crisis, have helped not only car dealers but also home buyers and the construction industry, were some laid off steel workers have found employment. He is aware of the national trend reflected in the Utah Valley that workers who lose jobs in manufacturing have a hard time finding comparable paying jobs elsewhere.
Jobs are plentiful, but wages are low.
Sperry's optimism is not shared by many American unions and businesses facing stiff competition from abroad. There's a growing national debate over whether or not tariffs and quotas are necessary to protect U.S. industries - even in once remote areas like the Utah Valley, where international trade policies have very local consequences. All Rights Reserved.