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 Challengers

Multinationals from the emerging economies of the world make more investments in the wealthiest nations
January 15, 2008

Visit Africa. Bring Checkbook.

The continent is a land of opportunity for investors willing to work with African partners
Jonathan Power
November 15, 2007

Snap-On Parts Didn’t Click Together for Boeing Jet

Boeing discovers that it’s not easy to backtrack on outsourcing
Jeff Bailey
January 17, 2008

Internet Outages Hit India, Middle East

The connected world is as fragile as the cables and power lines delivering service
Matthew Rosenberg
January 31, 2008

Contraband Is Big Business in Paraguay

Knocked off: Microsoft, Nintendo, and international tobacco all demand crackdown on Paraguay's "gray market."
Tony Smith
June 10, 2003