Low-cost imports are problematic, but not the sole reason or most important reason for the recent slump.
Kernels of truth can be found in this scenario, but overall it amounts to a caricature. Last December, I participated in the Copper Development Association's annual Market Trends Forum in New York. Among the speakers was David Heuther, chief economist for the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM). While he did not pull punches about the challenges facing our manufacturing sector, the most fascinating parts of his presentation were those that cleared up common misconceptions. Here are some points worth pondering.