I don't remember what year it was, but 'Passport To World Band Radio' covered this very subject, when they reviewed the The Becker Mexico car stereo, with SW bands on it. As it was back then, still seems true today, that since shortwave listening is a hobby in North America, and not seen as a necessity, they are just not offered over here. So, interested enthusiasts have to order from overseas and pay stupid money to do it. Me??? I'd love to have MW - HF available on the road, and not have to rig-up a portable, or HF rig, to do it. It's mainly about supply and demand. And, I also suspect, with today's wacky political climate, it may also be a way to keep the public from hearing alternative news sources from around the world that across radio unfiltered and uncensored. Just my $0.02 there.