The Friday File: Though the US no longer makes high-tech stuff like ipads and cell phones, or low tech stuff like shoes, we are a paper clip powerhouse. Most of the 11 billion sold, made in the US. Why? Since ’94 tariffs ranging up to 127% of the base price have protected US makers from Chinese imports. Interestingly, only plain steel clips enjoy tariff protection. Colorful plastic coated ones, they come from China.