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.

Bad Trade-Off

US voters suspect that free trade and foreign investment are the culprits behind vanishing jobs
Stuart Anderson
November 10, 2006

A Gas Pipeline to the World Outside

As members of the Association of Southeast Asia Nations like Thailand and Malaysia seek to integrate further through a shared gas pipeline, local villagers are fighting to protect their standard of living.
Wayne Arnold
October 26, 2001

Can Asia Count on Russian Oil?

With a long line of customers seeking oil, nations like Russia can be choosey
Michael Richardson
November 16, 2006

Secrets, Lies and Sweatshops

Constant pressure from US firms and consumers for low prices creates incentives for factories to cheat on labor regulations
November 27, 2006

Beijing’s African Summit: Why China Is Wooing the Dark Continent

China, with its careful diplomacy, gradually acquires more power and global influence than the US
Eric S. Margolis
November 17, 2006