A readily measurable aspect of globalization is the increasing exchange of capital, products and services across national boundaries, spurred by expanded use of container shipping and other technological improvements as well as falling barrier. The interdependence is most apparent with global supply chains, as manufactured goods like vehicles and electronics are assembled with components produced around the world, and it’s increasingly rare for any country to be the sole source of any one complex product. Countries aim to increase exports but worry about too many imports and trade imbalances, even as their consumers pursue low prices. Disagreements on subsidies, tariffs, quotas or unfair practices are debated by the World Trade Organization.

Rare Earth Metals Will Be Mined in Vietnam by the Japanese

Row with China leads Japan to mine rare-earth metals in Vietnam
Shino Yuasa
November 4, 2010

How Speculators Are Crippling the Copper Industry

Globalization of commodity trading hikes volatility, endangering production
Jens Glüsing, Alexander Jung, Thomas Schulz
November 4, 2010

Regulations and Security Concerns Hinder Asia’s Move to Cloud Computing

Cloud computing could save costs, boosting the competitive edge of small firms
Wayne Arnold
October 15, 2010

More Countries Adopt China’s Tactics on Currency

Global downturn lures countries into ‘beggar-thy-neighbor’ currency moves
David E. Sanger, Michael Wines
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India-Ohio Outsourcing Ban

India’s software and outsourcing firms can defend against US protectionist steps
Rupa Chanda
October 8, 2010