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.

US, China Eager to Gloss Over Any Disagreements

China’s neighbors and the US share some similar concerns when it comes to the economic powerhouse
Daniel Sneider
April 25, 2006

Mideast Money Pinch

Because of ongoing security concerns, the US holds less allure for travelers from the Middle East
Yasmine El-Rashidi
May 5, 2006

Africa’s Bitter Harvest

US and EU are hypocritical about African poverty and cotton subsidies
G. Pascal Zachary
May 10, 2006

Cuba Plans Offshore Wells Banned in US Waters

India and China score energy deal just miles off the US coast
Michael Janofsky
May 10, 2006

An Ugly Side of Free Trade: Sweatshops in Jordan

Sweatshop abuses and allegations emerge in new locations
Steven Greenhouse
May 4, 2006