For years manufacturing jobs in the United States disappeared as companies shifted to cheaper labor markets abroad. One country that benefited from this is China. Investments in business ventures combined with a totalitarian regime that pushed projects forward without debate benefited the country.

The Chinese economy has rapidly grown to the point of surpassing Japan and becoming the second largest economy in the world behind the United States. But now it appears this rapid growth may be catching up. More skilled workers commanding higher wages has caused increased payroll costs. There have also been increases in the cost of day to day operations. Some operations are being outsourced to smaller countries like Vietnam.

Companies are now realizing that outsourcing in manufacturing is not that cheap. Factors affecting the bottom line from increased wages to fuel costs have American manufacturers rethinking these policies. By 2015,  it will only be about 10 percent cheaper to manufacture in China. Companies are also realizing American labor force is more productive than its Chinese counterparts. More companies are now reinvesting in workers and plants in the United States.

Companies are now having a difficult time filling some positions due to skill factor involved in some jobs. But some manufacturers do see this as a positive as a more skilled work force provides more productivity and a better product. With the tide turning the phrase “Made In America” may mean quality as it once had before.