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What Is The Impact Of Globalization On American Workers

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Globalization and international trade are becoming more and more important to American workers and to our nation’s economy. International trade supports jobs, economic growth, and helps the United States compete in the global market.

Today, nearly 40 million jobs in the United States depend on the import and export of goods and services. These jobs represent 21.9 percent of total employment, or more than one in five jobs (Baughman and Francois, 2014, p. 8).

International trade has become a crucial part of our economy. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce total goods and services exports was over $2.2 trillion in 2013, with total goods exports at nearly $1.6 trillion, and total good exports to our Free Trade Agreement partners totaling …show more content…

Contributors at Business Roundtable state that “Trade and liberalization policies save the average American family of four more than $10,000 per year.” (Business Roundtable, n.d.). Imports keep prices down while increasing choices for goods and services.

While there are many benefits to globalization and international trade, the possible negative effects should not be overlooked. As countries fight to cut costs and stay competitive in the international market, many workers are forced to deal with low pay, unsafe working conditions, and even forced labor. International trade can also lead to environmental damage, outsourcing, and economic dependence. These aspects are also some of the reasons why people contest the globalization of business.

Those who oppose globalization argue that domestic jobs will be lost to lower cost international competitors. They also claim that globalization is a matter national security because nations can become dependent on hostile countries for vital goods and services. Another argument against globalization promotes unfair competition between

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