Made In:

During this most recent economic correction I've been thinking quite a bit about the movement of real money (not credit) on a global scale. Governments are advising to 'buy local' which doesn't really make much sense. Most people I know purchase over 95% of goods from stores within national boundaries.

I think the message should be targeted to retailers and amended to 'Stock Local'. I don't think governments should leave the rescue of the economy in hands of consumers. It's just human nature that people like you and me are mainly motivated by price, and not place of manufacture.

But I digress... As I was thinking about the flow of funds, I started to wonder where my personal disposable income was going. So I decided to find out.

I went about the task of emptying my closets of shirts, trousers, sweaters, socks, delicates, and anything else I wear on a regular basis, and started the tally of where each item was made.

After counting over 100 items, I created the image below. The bigger the name, the higher the frequency that country appears in my wardrobe:



Findings:
- As expected the highest frequency was CHINA
- I was surprised that CANADA appeared tied for third!
- I learned about the country of LESOTHO
- Someone in HONDURAS has made 90% of my tshirts!

- Many 'store brand' clothes do not have a 'Made In' label
- I am assuming most of the clothing I wear is made by very cheap labour
- I have travelled to about 15 countries, and of the 21 countries listed, I have only been to CANADA

I've come to the conclusion that my wealth has been spread to over 20 countries already, therefore the global economic correction has very little to do with me, however I must make more use of my passport and visit some of the sights my salary has seen!

I also did spare a thought about the economies of the 21 countries but that's another blost for another day.

Your comments, from any part of the world, are welcome!

Aneez