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.

Blue Skies for Globalization?

Global enterprises in the aerospace industry contribute to job growth
Richard Aboulafia
September 4, 2007

A Bumper Crop of Inertia

US farmers and consumers would be better off if the government ended most agricultural subsidies
Robert J. Samuelson
September 14, 2007

Big Questions for Big Oil

Growing power of monopolized national firms forces big changes in the oil industry
Sacha Kumaria
September 5, 2007

The Globalization of Giving

US firms extend the reach of their charitable activities, striving to become good global citizens
Steve Hendershot
August 29, 2007

China’s Exports of Aluminum, Steel Soar

The government struggles to reduce energy-intensive exports
Richard McGregor
August 24, 2007