International Trade & Wealth (pt. 3)

International Trade & Wealth (Pt. 3)

While international trade seems to be a wonderful opportunity to help everyone and make the whole world rich, there is a downside. Thomas Friedman in his book “The World is Flat”, Talks about how technology and communication has leveled the playing field. The book discussed how people no longer have to emigrate to participate in the world economy. He also talks about the many places in the world that are still round. These are the parts of the world that do not have access to the benefits of the global economy. They either have no communication capabilities or they lack the education to take advantage of them.

In many undeveloped countries the farmers cannot compete with big agribusiness and the government subsidies of the USA and the EU. We can say that they must modernize their farming practices so that they can produce enough food for the people in their country and to have surplus for export. We are already seeing the effects of big agribusiness in the developed world. Obesity, cancer and food politics are added ingredients in the mass produced factory food we eat. Talk to a person from outside the USA when they first arrive. Ask them how they like the food here. They may ask you, “What happened to it?”

Imports from China show what can happen when products from an unregulated manufacturing environment hit a vulnerable populace. The savings at the cash register are fast being negated by the dangers of lead paint and dangerous products.

We cannot blame trade for the problems. The blame belongs on greed and ignorance. More universal education can be the answer to many of our problems. Until we live in a perfect altruistic world a little diligence will help as well.


David Segrest is a REALTOR in Charlotte NC. His website is http:www.segrestrealty.com .