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.

The India-China Paradigm Is Passé

Asian firms pursue global investments and change business practices along the way
Kanika Datta
August 25, 2008

Shock Absorber: US Retools Economy, Curbing Thirst for Oil

Rejecting high prices, consumers willingly change habits
Justin Lahart
August 18, 2008

Emerging Markets Must Shift Their Focus Inwards

After a decade of growth, some fiscal discipline is in order
Raghuram Rajan
August 22, 2008

Shooting Ourselves in the Food

Subsidies for agriculture lead to distorted markets, higher prices, poverty and other dangers
Ernesto Zedillo
August 19, 2008

Harvesting Poverty

Agricultural subsidies hurt everyone but large farmers – from small farmers to poor countries
November 11, 2003