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.

Warning Issued on GM Maize Imported to Mexico

US environmental and trade officials question validity of GM corn report
Mike Shanahan
November 16, 2004

French NGOs Push to Save African Chicken Farmers from Europe

Is Europe truly "ripping the feathers off of Africa"?
October 18, 2004

Looms of Doom

A foreign fabric has silenced the looms of the local Indian weavers, reduced them to poverty, and killed an art
Sutapa Mukerjee
September 22, 2004

Pity the Giants

Though it’s illegal and a threat to an endangered species, the global trade in ivory has a momentum all of its own
Kesa Nimrahong
September 30, 2004

Freeing India's Textile Industry

The country’s government holds the key to helping its apparel manufacturers compete in the global market
Asutosh Padhi
October 5, 2004