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.

India Worries as China Builds Ports in South Asia

China is courting India’s neighbors
Vikas Bajaj
February 19, 2010

Free Trade, Loss of Support Systems Crippling Food Production in Africa

Free trade isn’t fair trade when competing against global agribusiness
February 18, 2010

Who Needs Whom More?

China’s economy benefitted from open markets; not its political freedoms
Philip Bowring
February 5, 2010

The Trade Factor

While the US has been working to reform its financial system, trade remains a worrisome area
Nayan Chanda
January 5, 2010

EU Finds Trade Barriers Rising Since Global Crisis

Protectionism in check, but trade restrictions persist
Stephen Castle
November 11, 2009