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.

How Biofuels Could Starve the Poor

Higher corn prices sparked by rising ethanol demand could aggravate poverty in the developing world
C. Ford Runge
April 24, 2007

Bush and Democrats in Accord on Trade Deals

New trade deals will include protections for workers and the environment
Steven R. Weisman
May 11, 2007

Filler in Animal Feed Is Open Secret in China

US pet-food recall could be the beginning of massive scrutiny of Chinese imports
David Barboza
May 4, 2007

EU-US Summit: Hands Across the Ocean

The EU-US summit focuses on the world's biggest trading relationship
José Manuel Barroso
April 27, 2007

Who's Your Big Brother? NAFTA, the EU, and International Trade and Development

Some extra investment on the part of the EU led to wealthier neighbors and steady economic growth
May 7, 2007