The Future of Globalization

Chris Bates, executive vice president of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers' Association, spoke to ACC about automotive industry globalization, and how it affects communications professionals. Bates' presentation centered around three topics: what industry globalization means, automotive outlook worldwide, and the impact of globalization on communications professionals.

Some of the "not-so-obvious answers" to the question of globalization, Bates said, are that there is a convergence of industry issues in Europe and North America, and regulators are discussing the industry internationally. Trade disputes are growing in scale and frequency, and the Internet is accelerating globalization.

Bates also closely examined the good and bad news of global business. On the good side, there are many new business opportunities for suppliers, and harmonization makes international business easier. However, with these opportunities come growing mistrust from the public of big corporations. In summary, Bates said that globalization is a pervasive and emotional issue, with higher risks and higher rewards for corporations. Successful relationships will be the key to effective international communications in the decades to come.

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