This is not only Pentax's fault, consider the extra import-taxes added by other countries. This can add up to 100 % to the prices in the USA.
If prices are too high in your country outside the US (like in Europe), complaint to your ouwn government. It's the public administration who steals your money, not the manufacturer....
( and perhaps your dealer who wants a too large peace of the pie
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Pentax K10D | Pentax ist DL | Sigma 135-400 F4.5-5.6 | Sigma 17-70, F2.8-4.5 | Pentax SMC 50-200 | Pentax kitlens 18-55 | Sigma 28mm prime 1.8 | Sigma prime 105 2.8 macro |