Community Corner

NOT Made in the USA: Flags, Fireworks Imported from China

More than $200 million was spent on fireworks and $3.8 million on flags imported from China in 2012.

The fireworks you see this Fourth of July, a staple of Independence Day celebrations around the nation, may not have been made in America.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the value of fireworks imported from China in 2012 was $218.2 million, representing the bulk of all fireworks imports. U.S. exports of fireworks, by comparison, came to just $11.7 million in 2012. 

And the U.S. flag you display this Independence Day may not have been made in America, either. In 2012, the dollar value of U.S. imports of American flags came to $3.8 million. Again, the majority of those imports came from China. 

Patch wants to know — On a day when Americans celebrate their independence, should the staples of those celebrations be made in America? Post your thoughts in the comments section. 


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