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.

Pain From Free Trade Spurs Second Thoughts

Economists are divided in their advice to US politicians on free trade and outsourcing of labor
David Wessel
March 30, 2007

Will the Doha Round Implode in 2003?

Myriad disputes threaten global trade talks.
Ernesto Zedillo
January 24, 2003

Bush Weighs Raising Steel Tariffs but Exempting Most Poor Nations

President Bush must decide whether to bail out American steelworkers at the risk of angering international and domestic supporters.
David E. Sanger
March 4, 2002

The Challenge for the Multilateral Trade System

In finding trading partners, should we be selective, or open the door to everyone at the same time?
Guy de Jonquières
November 18, 2002

US, Singapore on Brink of Sealing Free-Trade Pact

America is close to signing deal with Singapore, making it the first American bilateral free-trade agreement with an Asian country.
November 19, 2002