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.

Reid Deals Body Blow to Obama on Trade

Move could threaten approval for TTP and TTIP
William Mauldin, Siobhan Hughes
January 31, 2014

China Exports Pollution to US, Study Finds

Outsourcing manufacturing overseas shifted US pollution from east coast to west
Edward Wongjan
January 27, 2014

China Overtakes US as World’s Largest Goods Trader

The US still leads for trade in services
Jamil Anderlini, Lucy Hornby
January 22, 2014

Japan Eyes Commercial Prize as Abe Leads Visit to Africa

Diverse trade and competition could aid the continent
Javier Blas
January 21, 2014

Fears for Bangladeshi Democracy Rumble Across Region

Polarization and abuse of power threaten democracy
Victor Mallet
January 16, 2014