China Seizes Control Of Tent Manufacturers For Quake Aid

You've seen the tag on your high-tech camping gear from brands like Mountain Hardwear, Marmot, and The North Face: Made in China. SNEWS reports today that as part of its disaster relief efforts, the Chinese government has seized control of all Chinese-owned tent factories and existing stock. The report puts Chinese army soldiers on factory floors for at least a month, maybe more. The move may have some effect on US suppliers gearing up for the outdoor season, and could bottleneck production into the spring of 2009.

More importantly, though, state news agency Xinhua says that 749,200 tents have already been shipped to the quake area, but with homeless counts near 5 million —and with the summer rainy season fast approaching— health officials are openly worrying about disease control.  One report from Sichuan puts as many as 19 people living in a single tent.  Relief efforts continue, amid protests by grieving parents.

--Matthew Fishbane