It's difficult to identify the value we all perceive in the products we choose to purchase. Value is really the issue we're discussing and trying to justify why we make a choice to purchase.
Again, I'm not saying that all products built in other counties are made with inferior components. Products are made to the specs the manufacture or dealer specifies to meet a specific market price and category.
However, when it comes to guitars whether they're acoustic or electric the ones made in the USA are considered to be the "Bench Mark" products. That's why you see other companies build and market their products that model some of these brands that have a valued position. In addition, I like to support those companies when possible that support our economy directly by manufacturing and employing our citizens. There's additional an value added to those products that many of us choose to support.
One of the most memorable moments for me was when we were driving with our kids to go the Taylor Factory and my son said "why is everything made in China?". It opened a line of discussion that we all should be asking ourselves. There are fewer and fewer companies willing to do what it takes to design, spec, build, and market products domestically. We need to consider what the real cost is for us all to continue with the significant trade deficit that we have in this country. That being said, it does not mean that I don't support buying products made elsewhere if they meet the need. But, when possible I do buy local/domestic.
So, getting back to the OP's question of cost. It's the not the cost but the value we perceive when we choose to purchase. Only you can decide the value of a given product and its worth.