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.

Doha Round in Deadlock

WTO fails to agree on agricultural subsidies.
April 1, 2003

Iraq Rift Could Threaten US-EU, Global Economy

"Trade relations are like a bicycle, you have to keep it moving or it's going to fall over."
March 19, 2003

US Mortgage Crisis Hits Pacific Rim Markets

Mortgage lenders and securities dealers ignored the fact that US consumers bought homes beyond their means
Carter Dougherty
August 7, 2007

Global Fishing Trade Depletes African Waters

Selling fishing rights proves to be a disastrous policy – for the fish and the poor
John W. Miller
July 23, 2007

China's New Appetite for Milk Forces Price Rise in Germany

Nations must learn to manage demands from the world’s largest market
Kate Connolly
August 4, 2007