I know some people that started a company that makes GPS receivers for avionic use (any pilot will likely be able to name them). I heard them explain their rationale for manufacturing in China, and IIRC it wasn't related to cost—in fact, they said that cost was comparable to domestic production. Rather, the main advantage was the ability to source components, such as the Apple-specific connectors they have to use. Of course, there are difficulties inherent to working with a manufacturer that's half a world away (miscommunications, timezones, travel, etc.), but they determined that it was still the best way to manufacture their product.
China especially has manufacturing centers where just about any component can be sourced within a few hours, rather than waiting for parts to be shipped from around the country (if not the world).
China has a huge edge in electronics manufacturing, and it's not because of cost (anymore). If we ever hope to compete, we'll likely need to promote such a domestic manufacturing ecosystem via extra-market means.
China especially has manufacturing centers where just about any component can be sourced within a few hours, rather than waiting for parts to be shipped from around the country (if not the world).
China has a huge edge in electronics manufacturing, and it's not because of cost (anymore). If we ever hope to compete, we'll likely need to promote such a domestic manufacturing ecosystem via extra-market means.