The Fibers have the standard guides for the first 3 guides and the pitched forward for the remaining guides. As far as being made in China. The vast majority of rod companies producing rods under $200 are made in China. Fenwick, Duckett, Abu, *** rods, Megabass XX.
Companies do this because it is more cost effective. I know Matt stands behind his rods and I currently own 3 Fibers, 703, 744, and 754. All are awesome rods for the money. I also own the Genesis 2 and Crusher series and both of those are made in China and they get prettier, have higher quality components, and are nicer rods the more money you spend. The Air's which are $250 are made in Korea and are Irod's high end rod.
There are other brands that make their rods in Korea, Mexico, and some like Falcon and Kistler who have figured out how to make rods in the US and keep the price point down.