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How to fix fast fashion
Could consumer demand help drive down the cost of producing goods in America?
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Will US consumers pay a few dollars more to support local jobs? The shape of America’s economy may depend on the answer.
PHOTO: REUTERS
Rana Foroohar
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The American TV comedy show Saturday Night Live recently ran a skit sending up a fast fashion company called “Xiemu” that sells US$3.99 (S$5.40) tank tops that it claims are, amazingly, made with “minimal lead” and no “forced labour”. Hollywood star Jake Gyllenhaal played a US shopper who is suspicious of the sell but, when forced to square principles with cheap prices, cheerfully opts for the latter.
The sketch cuts at the heart of the global trade bargain. Rich countries send jobs to places with lower labour costs and environmental standards, and get cheaper stuff in return. If that involves pollution or child labour, just “don’t worry about it!” as the SNL satire chirps.
