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Study Notes

What is Hyper-Globalisation?

Level:
A-Level, IB
Board:
AQA, Edexcel, OCR, IB, Eduqas, WJEC

Last updated 27 Jul 2023

Hyper-globalisation refers to an extreme level of interconnectedness and integration among countries and economies on a global scale. It involves the deepening and acceleration of cross-border flows of goods, services, capital, information, and people. Hyper-globalisation goes beyond regular globalisation, where there is still some degree of national or regional autonomy in decision-making and economic activities.

Measuring Hyper-globalisation:

Measuring the level of hyperglobalization is a complex task that involves various indicators and metrics. Some commonly used measures include:

  1. Trade-to-GDP Ratio: This ratio calculates the value of exports and imports as a percentage of a country's gross domestic product (GDP). Higher trade-to-GDP ratios often indicate greater integration into the global economy.
  2. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Flows: FDI measures the amount of investment made by one country into another. Higher FDI flows suggest a more interconnected and globalized economy.
  3. Global Value Chains (GVCs): GVCs represent the international production and distribution of goods, where different stages of production occur in different countries. The extent of participation in GVCs can be an indicator of hyperglobalization.
  4. International Financial Flows: Monitoring the flow of capital across borders through foreign investments, portfolio investments, and other financial transactions can provide insights into financial globalization.
  5. Migration and Cross-Border Movement: The movement of people across borders for work, study, or other reasons can also be a measure of hyperglobalization.

Why Hyper-globalisation might be coming to an end:

  1. Protectionism and Trade Wars: Over the past few years, there has been a rise in protectionist policies and trade conflicts between major economies. Countries imposing tariffs, quotas, and other trade barriers disrupt the flow of goods and services across borders, reducing hyperglobalization.
  2. Regionalisation: Some countries and regions have been focusing more on regional trade agreements and economic integration rather than global trade. Regionalization can lead to a shift away from hyperglobalization towards more localized economic interactions.
  3. Nationalism, Populism and Political Shifts: Political movements in various countries have advocated for a more inward-looking approach and prioritisation of national interests over global cooperation. This trend can hinder further hyperglobalization.
  4. Supply Chain Resilience: The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains, leading to a reevaluation of the risks associated with extensive dependence on international production and distribution networks. This may result in companies and governments seeking to localize or diversify supply chains.
  5. Technological Developments: Advancements in automation, artificial intelligence, and robotics might reduce the need for labor-intensive global supply chains, leading to a reevaluation of the hyperglobalization trend.
  6. Environmental Concerns: Growing awareness of climate change and environmental issues may lead to calls for more sustainable, local production and consumption, which could reduce hyper-globalisation.

It's important to note that while there might be a shift away from hyperglobalization, this does not necessarily mean a complete reversal of globalization trends. Rather, it suggests a potential rebalancing or recalibration of the global economic landscape.

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