Paul Midler

Paul Midler is an author and consultant known for his extensive work examining manufacturing and trade relationships between China and the West. His 2009 book "Poorly Made in China" became influential in exposing quality control issues and business practices in Chinese manufacturing. Drawing from his experience working directly with Chinese factories and Western importers, Midler documented systematic quality fade, contract manipulation, and other controversial practices that impacted product safety and international trade. His work gained particular attention during several high-profile product safety scandals involving Chinese-made goods. With degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and the Wharton School of Business, Midler spent over two decades living and working in East Asia as a manufacturing consultant. He has provided commentary on China business practices for major media outlets and continues to write about international trade dynamics. His follow-up book "What's Wrong with China" (2018) further explored cultural and business challenges in China's rapid industrial development. Midler's work has contributed significantly to the discourse around globalization, outsourcing, and quality control in international manufacturing.

Readers value Midler's first-hand insights into Chinese manufacturing practices and business culture. His books draw from direct experience rather than academic theory. What readers liked: - Detailed examples of quality fade and contract manipulation - Clear explanations of complex business relationships - Personal anecdotes that illustrate broader patterns - Balanced tone when discussing sensitive topics What readers disliked: - Some felt the books became repetitive - A few readers wanted more proposed solutions - Others found certain generalizations about Chinese culture oversimplified Ratings: "Poorly Made in China" (2009) - Goodreads: 4.0/5 (2,800+ ratings) - Amazon: 4.4/5 (380+ reviews) "What's Wrong with China" (2018) - Goodreads: 3.7/5 (200+ ratings) - Amazon: 4.3/5 (90+ reviews) Notable reader comment: "Finally someone writing from real experience rather than theory. The examples of quality fade were eye-opening and matched my own experiences dealing with Chinese suppliers." - Amazon reviewer

Poorly Made in China (2009) A detailed account of quality control issues and controversial business practices in Chinese manufacturing, based on the author's first-hand experiences working with factories and importers.

What's Wrong with China (2018) An examination of cultural and business challenges that emerged during China's rapid industrial development, drawing from decades of direct observation in East Asian manufacturing.

Tim Clissold documented firsthand experiences navigating business ventures in China during the 1990s through his book "Mr. China." His insider perspective on deal-making and relationship building in China's early reform era parallels Midler's observations about cultural misunderstandings and business practices.

Alexandra Harney investigated labor conditions and manufacturing practices in Chinese factories for "The China Price." Her research into cost pressures, quality compromises, and worker experiences aligns with Midler's findings about manufacturing challenges.

Carl Minzner examines China's institutional and economic development in "End of an Era: How China's Authoritarian Revival is Undermining Its Rise." His analysis of systemic issues in China's modernization provides context for the business practices Midler describes.

Mike Daisey wrote about electronics manufacturing in China through "The Agony and Ecstasy of Steve Jobs." His investigation of supply chains and manufacturing conditions explores similar territory as Midler's work on quality control and production practices.

James McGregor analyzes U.S.-China business relations in "One Billion Customers" based on decades of experience in China. His examination of business culture and deal-making provides complementary insights to Midler's manufacturing-focused observations.