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.

China Stand on Imports Upsets US

Growing economic nationalism could hurt both nations
Steven R. Weisman
November 28, 2007

Iran Condemns “Doomed” Sanctions

By imposing new sanctions, the US, not Iran’s inept leaders, could become the target for Iranians’ ire
Ewen MacAskill
October 27, 2007

Myanmar, The Latest Petro Bully

Oil wealth in the hands of a few leads to corruption, criminal activity and cruelty
Michael L. Ross
October 30, 2007

US-India Nuclear Pact Runs Into (Surprise!) Politics

Opponents in India drag their feet and make demands on domestic issues
Somini Sengupta
October 19, 2007

Bad Neighbor

The self-interested policies of Burma's ASEAN neighbors are wrong, for both moral and economic reasons
October 22, 2007