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 Rice Imports “Contain Harmful Levels of Lead”

Electronics recycling adds to metals in soil
Jason Palmer
April 11, 2013

Pressured by China, Apple Apologizes for Warranty Policies

Chinese consumers show their might with mass complaint
David Barboza, Nick Wingfield
April 3, 2013

IMF Signals Push to Scrap Energy Subsidies

Ending $2 trillion in subsidies could balance budgets
Robin Harding
March 29, 2013

China's Xi Jinping Visits; Africa Asks, What Are We Getting Out of This?

Concern emerges about a new form of colonialism
Peter Ford
March 27, 2013

Wildlife at the Mercy of International Trade Politics

China-US propose trade ban on rare turtles; Russia-US act on polar bears
March 5, 2013