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.

Trade Ruling Is Expected to Favor Biotech Food

The WTO ruling could open European market to US producers of genetically modified food products
Andrew Pollack
February 6, 2006

China, the WTO and Globalization

Trade is not the answer to all of the country’s development challenges
Dorothy Guerrero
February 6, 2006

Putin Promises Oil Pipeline for Japan

Russia and Japan warm towards mutual trade benefits
James Brooke
November 23, 2005

Trade Rounds a Harder Sell

Hong Kong could be the beginning of the WTO's slide into irrelevance
Guy de Jonquières
December 13, 2005

India to WTO: Help Us Protect Herbs, Tea, Yoga

India seeks protection for medicinal and cultural secrets
Eric Bellman
December 19, 2005