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.

Pentagon Loses Control of Bombs to China Metal Monopoly

Unwittingly, US hands processing of materials for key technology to China
Peter Robison, Gopal Ratnam
October 1, 2010

New EU Rules Target Countries with Export Surpluses

Europe moves to get its economic house in order, tackling trade imbalances and debt
Christian Reiermann
September 29, 2010

Inside the Knockoff-Tennis-Shoe Factory

Counterfeit sneakers from China travel the world and build skills at home
Nicholas Schmidle
September 22, 2010

Australia Gets Money, China Gets Australia

Chinese investment brings wealth and jobs, but Australians worry about the boom’s end
Malcolm Knox
September 20, 2010

Food Production: Agriculture Wars

Rising fertilizer prices signal rising global demand for food and fears of scarcity
Javier Blas, Leslie Hook
September 13, 2010