I read with interest your interview with Craig Harmon on RFID and the China Conundrum. During the interview Harmon raised a number of points which need clarification in particular EPCglobal's finance model.

Let me begin by saying how pleased we are to see China's decision to allocate two Ultra High Frequency (UHF) bands for RFID use. We have been working with the Chinese authorities for the last three years to support their decision regarding the development of regulations for RFID, so naturally we are delighted with this outcome. The decision paves the way for both local and foreign companies to become RFID enabled in China.

As the world moves closer towards globalization of manufacturing, supply chains and centralized information systems, standards are required to ensure that what works in one country can work anywhere around the world. The supply chain is in many cases global in scope and requires a "common language" to minimize complexity and maximize effectiveness. Global standards give us the ability to streamline commerce around the world be that China, India or France or anywhere. It provides an environment in which companies can sell products in Egypt or England, using the same technology to track case and pallet movement throughout the supply chain. It also promotes the development of open systems that by their very nature drive down the costs of implementation.