Perspectives on International Trade

While some may dispute that economics is the driving force behind much of history, nobody can argue that trade is not a significant factor in international relations. In an increasingly globalised world, products are perpetually crossing borders, leading to both political and fiscal conflicts. Businesses have to face diverse markets and regions while worrying about protectionist government initiatives that hamper free trade. Even the ostensible champion of free markets, America, has its own streak of inhibiting the flow of goods; witness the recent steel tariffs which have angered European partners. No society, therefore, is immune to the pressures of world trade and the need to balance the free movement of products with the desire to preserve domestic industries. This book assembles a collection of articles examining some of the most current and divisive issues in the international trade arena. They range from the tensions between the United States and Mexico in NAFTA to the war-fuelled trade in diamonds in Africa. With such a broad range of issues discussed, this book serves as a needed tool for understanding the most important contemporary economic subjects.