Why doesn't the US just make its own fortune cookies instead of importing them from China?

Fortune cookies have become a ubiquitous part of American cuisine, but surprisingly, they are not actually of Chinese origin. In fact, fortune cookies were invented in the United States in the early 20th century, likely by Japanese immigrants in California.

While it may seem logical for the US to manufacture its own fortune cookies, the reality is that it would be much more expensive than importing them from China. China currently produces the vast majority of the world's fortune cookies, and their manufacturers have become highly skilled at producing them efficiently and inexpensively.

In addition, the production of fortune cookies is a specialized process that requires unique equipment and expertise. It would require a significant investment of time and resources for a US company to establish a new manufacturing facility and develop the necessary expertise.

Furthermore, importing fortune cookies from China is not as straightforward as it may seem. There are various regulatory requirements and inspections that must be passed before they can be brought into the US, including inspections by the Food and Drug Administration and the US Customs and Border Protection. As long as the Chinese manufacturers continue to meet these requirements, it is likely that importing fortune cookies will remain the most cost-effective option for US businesses.

The United States does make its own fortune cookies. However, there are a few reasons why some fortune cookies are imported from China.

• Cost: It is cheaper to produce fortune cookies in China than in the United States. This is due to a number of factors, including lower labor costs, cheaper raw materials, and government subsidies.
• Quality: Some people believe that fortune cookies made in China are of higher quality than those made in the United States. This is because Chinese manufacturers have more experience making fortune cookies and use higher-quality ingredients.
• Availability: Fortune cookies made in China are more widely available than those made in the United States. This is because Chinese manufacturers produce more fortune cookies and sell them to a wider range of customers.

Despite these reasons, there are still a number of fortune cookies made in the United States. These cookies are typically made by smaller, family-owned businesses that use high-quality ingredients and traditional methods.