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.

Deja-vu All Over Again

EU members struggle to reach a compromise on agriculture.
Tobias Buck
June 16, 2003

Time to Trade

International investors want synchronized trading hours across Europe.
Anke Bryson
June 27, 2003

Bush Links Europe's Ban on Bio-Crops With Hunger

"European governments should join, not hinder, the great cause of ending hunger in Africa."
David E. Sanger
May 22, 2003

Senators Demand Ban on Imports from Burma

The US and MNCs unite to encourage democracy in Myanmar through economic sanctions.
Anwar Iqbal
June 5, 2003

The “China Honeymoon” Is Over

The EU-China love affair has skidded off-track, with tensions over politics and corporate differences
David Shambaugh
December 7, 2007