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.

Elite Ponder Threats to Globalization

Imbalances of wealth, technology and energy use could lead to instability and conflict
D. Ravi Kanth
February 1, 2007

The False Promise of Financial Liberalization

Emerging economies discover that surges in capital stall growth
Dani Rodrik
January 22, 2007

ASEAN Pursues EU-Style Regional Integration

The EU has demonstrated that trade and integration can be profitable, particularly among close neighbors
Carlos H. Conde
January 15, 2007

Democrats Give Bush the Business on Trade

Congress wants a time-out on fast-track trade negotiation, pondering protections for labor and the environment
Peter S. Goodman
February 1, 2007

Latin American Countries Skeptical of U.S. Trade Agreement

For Latin America to agree to a pan-American free-trade agreement, the US will have to make concessions on agricultural tariffs.
Edmund L. Andrews
November 1, 2002