造不出的椅子 回不去的制造业

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges faced by the U.S. manufacturing sector in the context of the government's push for "re-shoring" manufacturing jobs, highlighting the disconnect between policy intentions and practical realities [8]. Group 1: Challenges in U.S. Manufacturing - The U.S. manufacturing sector struggles to attract skilled labor, with average wages for manufacturing workers being nearly six times higher than those in Vietnam, yet still failing to draw sufficient American workers [4]. - Over 20% of U.S. factories report that labor supply shortages prevent them from operating at full capacity, indicating a significant gap in skilled labor availability [4]. - The construction costs for factories in the U.S. have doubled over the past four years due to inflation, while many existing factories are over 30 years old and in need of upgrades [5]. Group 2: Comparison with China - China has developed a complete industrial system, being the only country with all industrial categories recognized by the United Nations, which allows for efficient matching of components and processes [4]. - The Chinese manufacturing sector can provide comprehensive services, as demonstrated by a Chinese student's experience in finding a manufacturer that could complete all necessary processes for a design project, unlike the limited options available in the U.S. [2][3]. Group 3: Historical Context - The peak of U.S. manufacturing occurred between the 1940s and 1960s, when it accounted for 28.3% of global manufacturing output and 28% of the U.S. GDP [5]. - Post-World War II, the U.S. benefited from a unique position as a leading industrial power, while other regions were rebuilding, which contributed to its manufacturing dominance [6]. - The rise of competitors like Japan and South Korea in the 1980s, which began to lower labor costs and adopt automation, further challenged U.S. manufacturing [7]. Group 4: Policy Implications - The government's high tariffs have increased costs for raw materials and components, complicating the manufacturing landscape and leading to a cautious investment climate among businesses [5]. - The article suggests that the U.S. government has underestimated the complexities involved in revitalizing the manufacturing sector, as highlighted by the challenges outlined in a recent Economist article [8].