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.

Chinese Exports and Imports Continue to Shrink

Trade fortunes and troubles of East and West are tightly intertwined
Keith Bradsher
January 14, 2009

Beijing Puzzle

China has plenty of goods to sell, but few buyers at home or abroad
January 21, 2009

Russian Gas Politics

Disruptions in Europe’s supply of Russian gas sends signals to others planning pipelines
Yoo Chul-jong
January 14, 2009

Global Car Industry Fearful for Detroit

Failure of the US auto companies would not transform European firms into winners
Nelson D. Schwartz
December 16, 2008

Ukraine Says Russia Shuts Down All Gas Supplies to Europe

An entire continent is caught in the middle of a dispute that may go beyond gas payments
David Jolly
January 7, 2009