Chapter 20 was essentially based around China and how it was able to rapidly transform not only its own economy, but also its global impact. It's interesting that the author also is somewhat able to predict becoming a significant global player because of its strong export power because that's what China's become today. Outsourcing is a key part as to why China has grown into what it has become today. Factory towns are essential for China in terms of outsourcing, and if they didn't use the cheap labor methods that they had used, they may not be as a significant player in the global economy.
Chapter 21 focuses mainly on GCCs and how different commodities are manufactured and shipped between countries. Athletic shoes had a boom starting in the 1980s, and continued well through the 90s as well, particularly among teenagers. Nike took advantage of this "fitness boom" in the late 70s early 80s. Although Nike did benefit greatly during this time, there was controversy about how they got the money, as money from drugs and gangs became a talking point.
The TAL episode talks primarily about the struggle that poorer countries (such as Cambodia) have when trying to grow in the global market. Wages of workers in these countries is also important as well, as more established countries will move elsewhere with production if the wage they have to pay gets too high. Countries such as Cambodia suffered significantly, as they had dealt with a civil war that resulted in the loss of over 1 million people.
1 comment:
Hello! I like your emphasis in the Cambodia Civil War, it show us that it is not just about products and profits, but when in the international market, turning back to a country or simply cutting alliances is not just a economic move, but can led to big social and political problems to that nation, affecting millions of people.
Post a Comment