It does not take one to be an economist to understand that the United States of America controls the global market. Dr. Rivoli uses her book to explain the above phenomena using the example of a t-shirt and its movement from the states in its raw form of cotton until when it’s a finished product ready for the market until it finds the used clothing market in Africa. She also explains the various factors that influence the domination of the United States in cotton production, such as climate, technology and the use of genetically modified seeds.

She also agrees with other economists like Friedman that globalization is also a significant factor causing success. All countries can now compete equally under globalization (Friedman, 128). I think this fact enables the rich economies to like the United States to grow even stronger. Thus, the States will continue to dominate the global economy. I also agree with her that cultural and human elements are of great importance in international trade. This is explained by the fact that slavery (during its time) contributed significantly to the rise of the United States as an economic power, as it provided free labor. All the above dynamics of international trade have made America more successful than China (China is the largest cotton producer) and India.

To conclude this paper, I would add my view that other factors like prices and social factors also influence success in international trade. For example, low rates are the reasons why many people in Africa opt for used goods from abroad over those made locally.

Works cited:

Rivoli, Pietra. The travels of a t-shirt in the global economy: An economist examines the markets, power, and politics of world trade. New preface and epilogues with updates on economic issues and main characters. John Whiley and sons, 2014.

Abraham, Nandita. “The apparel in India-a case study focusing on reverse logistics.” Journal on fashion marketing and management: an international journal 15.2 (2011): 211-227.