Imports from the CAFTA region of customs classifications typically associated with the outdoor industry have grown 59% in units during the 2007 to 2010 period to 693 million units from 436 million as outdoor companies seek shorter lead times, increased flexibility and sourcing diversification. And they are also seeing the gap in costs between Asia and the Western Hemisphere narrow while quality from the Western Hemisphere is improving.

Those were among the key points at an Outdoor Industry Association seminar exploring the topic that featured panelists from New Balance, Keen, American Recreation, the International Trade Commission and the National Council of ... Log in to view full article.