Archer has arranged a meeting with you to discuss the recent criticisms regarding the surfboard manufacturing industry and why some of ASD’s competitors have decided to import surfboards rather than manufacture them locally. In preparation for the meeting you have undertaken some research into the issue and have come across the following articles: 

http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/one-u-s-company-trying-surf-tides-foreign-trade/
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-04-01/local-surfboard-makers-are-being-wiped-out-foreign-drop-ins/6362240
http://www.couriermail.com.au/business/surfboard-manufacturers-unite-against-cheap-chinese-imports/news-story/fbc8a1bfb667dd1250fa735acd120885

a. Using your existing knowledge of and recent research on the surfing industry, provide Archer with a list of costs and benefits of importing surfboards versus manufacturing boards locally. In preparing this list, you should consider the costs and benefits to the organisation, the environment and society.

b. Archer has decided that ASD will continue to manufacture their boards locally – at least in the short term. He has asked your advice as to whether ASD should report to stakeholders on the origins of their surfboards and how they could do this. Advise Archer as to what you think the best course of action might be for ASD. Justify your answer.