Originally Posted by Webby

The volume of qualified labor in these countries is substantial. They may vary in their education systems, but the net result is that they are educated and trained.

Simple example here in Costa Rica is (tho can't quote actual stats) that there is a very high percentage of the younger population finishing their education with a degree. They all have some degree or other!

A reasonable salary for say, a tech-qualified graduate is about $1000/month.

Another reverse example is a US lawyer who moved here a few years back. I asked him why he wants to move here and take a salary drop? He replied the quality of life is superior and he would not, in real terms, be taking any salary reduction - the cost of living was much less.

It's also very similar to the example you quoted of the Indian project manager. There is a substantial biz here in software development and their market is worldwide and they sure ain't sweatshops