PC and other kilt related items made in Pakistan

[Tobus]

It's a question not just of price but of a) risk - as Scott pointed out and b) whether you want to support a company that uses dishonest marketing practices (publishing stolen photos that don't reflect the actual product for sale) and who are taking advantage of poor labour conditions to undercut the Scottish Highland attire industry.

Is that really what the Pakistani companies are doing? "Taking advantage of poor labour conditions"? I think they might view it as creating jobs and opportunity for their local communities by tapping into a global market. The quality of life there is pretty poor compared to the West, and the cost of living is very low. Labour is cheap there due to many factors such as high population density and a low standard of living. Unless they're running sweat-shops with forced labour, I would imagine that their factories are very good for the community, and people are grateful for the stability that comes with the work, including a regular paycheck. If they can offer fabrics and garments to the world at a competitive price and still improve their way of life, are their motivations any different than anyone else in the world? Including the Scottish Highland attire industry?

Don't get me wrong; I agree that shady business ethics are an absolute no-go. And the quality of Highland wear from Pakistan is very questionable. Personally, I don't waste my money on junk/knockoffs when I can find better-made, higher-quality, authentic items from the UK. But I wouldn't go so far as to assume some sort of nefarious conspiracy behind Pakistani manufacturers. I highly doubt their intent is to exploit their own people for the sake of destroying the Scottish industry. My guess is that they are viewed in their communities as smart businessmen and local leaders who are trying to bring Pakistan out of third-world status.