Thank you for your question, "How do I motivate affiliates who are discouraged by the world economy's impact on the costs of products at Tripleclicks?"
I believe that the best way to motivate these affiliates is to encourage them to support "our store", Tripleclicks, by making their necessary purchases through a local ECA. This is a win/ win situation because they are increasing earnings at Tripleclicks and supporting the local economy.
Try energizing yourself has if starting from that positions of your affiliates and see how you will deal with that yourself then offer your help and assistants in every way possible. Also try mails, email, contact phone number if any. To communicate. Now give advise of how simple it is to invest in oneself.