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.

Tainted Chinese Imports Common

China is in a big rush to feed the world, flooding the market with unfit food
Rick Weiss
May 24, 2007

Indo-Iranian Ties: Thicker Than Oil

In forming strategic alliances, nations like India refuse to put all their eggs in one basket
C. Christine Fair
June 14, 2007

Food First or Trade First?

“Trade liberalization cannot set the determining framework for how food is produced and how agriculture is organized.”
Vandana Shiva
February 25, 2003

The Middle East Belongs in the World Economy

Developing trade policy with more Middle Eastern countries would help to secure peace and stability in the region.
Charlene Barshefsky
February 22, 2003

Rich Nations Are Criticized for Enforcing Trade Barriers

The annual meeting of the World Bank and IMF ends without addressing the rich nations’ hypocrisy over trade barriers.
Edmund L. Andrews
September 30, 2002