why is fly gear so darned expensive?

Here in Britain we pay pounds for your dollars for the same gear !!
I am constantly amazed at the US/UK price differential for the same stuff . As an instructor I can obtain significant discounts in this country and at the risk of becoming very unpopular : the real reason is the mark up on most fishing gear , yes , even in the States . Too high .
OK Milled reels are works of engineering and are great to fish I agree , ( I have several ) , but totally unnecessary for most , most , fishing . Also , there is too much hype re salt water fly fishing gear , period, inevitable I suppose , (sorry if that sounds a bit cynical ).
A beginner should not begin with heavy gear , 8 wt is fine outwith very windy conditions which he/she should not bother with initially . This is freshwater gear , ( use plenty backing if big fish expected !!!) , clean it properly afterwards in the kitchen sink and all will be well .

Let's try and include people into this great sport of ours and please also let's get rid of the Salt Water HYPE !
Not all stripers are twenty five pounds .
Replies welcome . Smilie here !!!
Thanks .