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 to Rejoin Coffee Pact

The International Coffee Organization hopes US membership will help remedy the world coffee crisis
September 15, 2004

Rwanda Savors the Rewards of Coffee Production

International organizations use two methods of aid to help Rwandan coffee producers
Carter Dougherty
July 27, 2004

Real Trade Negotiations Still Lie Ahead

Weekend talks cleared the way for a resumption of Doha round trade negotiations
Guy de Jonquières
August 1, 2004

Free Trade and Outsourcing Are Not the Same

Economic theorists and politicians ignore reality
Clyde Prestowitz
April 25, 2004

German Firms Applaud Libya Deal

Chancellor Gerhard Schröder plans to meet Qaddafi after agreement on Berlin attack
Aaron Kirchfeld
August 13, 2004