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.

Nations Can Try Promotion – Not Protectionism

Selective engagement with the global economy, prioritizing growth, spurs inequality
Anthony P. D’Costa
February 4, 2013

The Legacy of the Silk Road

In an era of tolerance, ancient Silk Road routes opened way to rich cultural exchange
Valerie Hansen
January 25, 2013

Can China and Turkey Forge a New Silk Road?

Trade, cultural exchanges enrich Sino-Turkish ties, but new Silk Road is a distant dream
Anna Beth Keim, Sulmaan Khan
January 18, 2013

In Disputes Over Asian Seas, Winner May Take Zilch

Territorial disputes in the South and East China seas could derail the Asian Century
Robert A. Manning
January 14, 2013

Nationalism Rises in Northeast Asia

Territorial fights menace prosperity in Japan, China, South Korea and global interdependence
Jean-Pierre Lehmann
January 4, 2013

East Asia: Stop Squabbling, Start Drilling

Unitization – sharing oil revenues – might alleviate disputes in East Asian waters
Will Hickey
December 14, 2012