It was only many years later that we learnt about the atrocities and the inhuman ways the natives of the Amazon Valley were subjected to by the white barons to develop exporting of natural rubber to Europe to provide the main raw material for the automotive tyre industry which was gradually evolving in to a flourishing industry. The inventing of synthetic rubber in the late 1940s and the development of SBR  due to the short supply of natural rubber from the colonies  in the East to cater for the growing demand for tyres used in the military vehicles during the Second World War and the Korean War is another episode of beyond the border commercial endeavours.

Although the word ‘globalisation’ was coined by Theodore Levitt in 1983 through an article ‘Globalisation of Markets’ which appeared in the Harvard Business Review  (May-June 1983), I feel that we should go way back in the annals of history to get an understanding of the term. This knowledge may not look attractive to the modern business world. Nevertheless, the sociologists and others of similar disciplines will certainly find such knowledge useful in comprehending the modern day socio-economic woes.

Origins of globalisation may possibly be traced back to early human migrations, presumably from the Olduvai George Gorge, a site in Tanzania that holds the earliest evidence of human ancestors. Human migration is the movement of people from one place to another, particularly different countries, with the intent of settling temporarily or permanently in the new location. It typically involves movement over long distances. The driving motive, namely seeking dominance over fellow men and exploiting the natural environment to achieve success, does not seem to have changed over the millions of years.

The emergence of the great civilisations, e.g. Indus Valley, Mesopotamia, and their subsequent decline can be attributed to globalisation. Similarly, the invasions and cross-border military conquests of historical fame (or notoriety) such as that of Alexander the Great and colonisation by the West for the exploitation of natural wealth in Asia, Africa and South America reveals an ugly facet of globalisation.

The Silk Route interlinking East Asia and Southeast Asia with South Asia, Persia, the Arabian Peninsula, East Africa and Southern Europe, on the other hand, was central to the economic, political, cultural and religious interactions between these regions form 2nd century BCE to the 18th century.

The industrialisation and expansion of business and commerce across countries during the past 300-plus years was fuelled by the four industrial revolutions, or waves as some prefer to identify them, namely steam power, conveyor system, computers and digitalisation. The process is continuing to the unforeseeable future with new knowledge and innovations fuelling the globalisation.

The multifaceted nature of globalisation has commonly been identified into eight types as shown below:

•           Political Globalisation

•           Social Globalisation

•           Economic Globalisation

•           Technological Globalisation

•           Financial Globalisation

•           Cultural Globalisation

•           Economic Globalisation

•           Geographical Globalisation

My intention is not to delve in to a discussion about the pros and cons of globalisation, which has been comprehensively documented, but to highlight on some key aspects from this part of the world, especially of the Asian subcontinent.

Knowledge dissemination across border, in my view, is the single most important factor associated with globalisation. This appears common to all the above types of globalisation. The dissemination of the Buddhist doctrine by the great Emperor Asoka to countries spreading from the far East to the Central Asia and Middle East including the present Sri Lanka during 3rd century BCE is one of the earliest recorded instances of globalisation.

Countries with long histories going back to 3,000 to 4,000-plus years, such as India, China and Sri Lanka, possessed a vast knowledge base ingrained in the social consciousness. This appears to have significantly influenced the philosophical and intellectual thought of the Greek and Persian periods. Unfortunately, a major part of this knowledge has been eroded through the influence of the West, which started around the 16th century. One good example of this knowledge found in the ancient irrigation knowledge of Sri Lanka is the engineering  marvel of a gradient of 1 inch per mile in an ancient canal about 87 km long,  built to connect two man-made reservoirs in the 5th century AD. Similarly, India and Sri Lanka possessed a vast indigenous knowledge base in medicine, astrology, architecture, agriculture, irrigation and astrology, and it is somewhat unfortunate that this knowledge has not been adequately globalised. The only significant inroads are seen in tourism. But that too are based on the western norms.

On the other hand, we have acquired a vast knowledge from the industrialised countries on modern management thoughts and technologies which have enabled industrialisation and improvement in living conditions of the populace. In this era of interdependency, a country cannot afford to ignore the technologies which are necessary to maintain a suitable level of competitiveness internationally. However, if this is accomplished at the expense of ignoring the inherent social and cultural foundations, the long-term adverse consequences would be disastrous and unimaginable.

The adverse long-term consequences of the use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides and the global addiction to pharmaceuticals are already seen physically and socially in practically all the countries, especially the so called underdeveloped or developing countries.

The aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic and the irreversible effects of global warming are two examples of globalisation which are affecting the mere sustenance  of mankind.

A country can immensely benefit by striving for stars through adopting modern technologies. However, the absolute importance of a strong base cannot be ignored or taken lightly. Back to a strong base and reinforcing the base lies at the core of sustainable development.

The words of Mahatma Gandhi echoing from the past reaffirm this plain truth in no uncertain terms.

“I do not want my house to be walled in on all sides and my windows to be stuffed. I want the cultures of all lands to be blown about my house as freely as possible. But I refuse to be blown off my feet by any.”

“What's past is prologue," a quote from William Shakespeare's ‘The Tempest’ presumes that though history is written, the future is anyone's to decide – with the knowledge gleaned from the past. (TT)

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Pirelli enters the 2026 FIA European Rally Championship (ERC) season as the defending Tyres Manufacturer champion, with the opening round taking place from 17 to 19 April on the demanding asphalt roads of Rally Sierra Morena in Andalusia. A total of 62 crews will gather for the event, and more than 30 of them are expected to fight for the initial points of the European title race. The challenging route features 203.80 timed kilometres spread across 13 special stages, setting the scene for a competitive weekend.

To equip its teams for this gruelling asphalt challenge, Pirelli has prepared a selection of tyres from the P Zero range, specifically the hard RA5C and soft RA7+ compounds for dry conditions, complemented by the Cinturato RWD for wet weather. Among the leading contenders using Pirelli tyres are Andrea Mabellini, who secured third place in the overall championship last year and will drive a Lancia Y HF, along with reigning Italian champion Giandomenico Basso and Teemu Suninen, both piloting a Skoda Fabia RS.

Beyond the main European championship entries, Pirelli also serves as the sole supplier and technical partner for the M-Sport Fiesta Rally3 Trophy, now in its third season. This initiative has attracted 11 crews to Rally Sierra Morena, further highlighting Pirelli’s broad involvement in the event. The tyre allocation rules specify that drivers in RC2, RC3 and RGT categories receive 16 tyres, while those in RC4, RC5 and RC6 are allocated 12.

For crews taking part in Qualifying, the tyres used during that session count towards the overall allocation. However, tyres used during Free Practice and the Shakedown are not included in the total. With a strong field and Pirelli’s comprehensive technical support, the 2026 season opener promises intense competition on the Andalusian stages.

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Titan International has broadened its Black Rock branded Styled Wheels collection by launching a new range of aluminium wheels aimed at truck, SUV and Jeep enthusiasts who prioritise function and purpose-driven design. This expansion strengthens Titan’s dedication to products that blend toughness, adaptable fitment and striking modern aesthetics. It also supports the company’s ongoing expansion within specialty and off-road vehicle segments.

Engineered for genuine on- and off-road use, these new wheels cater to drivers with an outdoor lifestyle who refuse to compromise between high level performance and cutting edge looks. The Black Rock aluminium lineup includes multiple series and comes in a variety of finishes such as Gloss Black, Satin Black, Bronze and Gloss Silver Full Mach. These finishes offer a balance of classic and contemporary styling.

Available diameters include 17, 18 and 20 inches, covering popular bolt patterns, offsets and backspacing configurations for today’s most common trucks, SUVs and Jeeps. Designed as a function forward wheel solution, the Black Rock aluminium wheels provide the rugged styling and fitment options off road enthusiasts demand, all while maintaining uncompromised quality and performance.

Ryan Fuller, Styled Wheels & High-Speed Trailer Product Manager at Titan, said, “Customers want wheels that look great, fit right and hold up to real use. This launch expands the Black Rock aluminium offering with fresh styles and finishes while staying true to what the brand is known for: purpose-inspired designs.”

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DUNLOP (company name: Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd.) has officially extended its exclusive tyre supplier and technical partnership with Two Wheels Motor Racing (TWMR) for the FIM Asia Road Racing Championship (ARRC). This renewed agreement will remain in force until the year 2031, continuing a collaboration that dates back to the very first season of the championship in 1996.

For nearly three decades, DUNLOP has worked alongside TWMR as the designated official tyre partner, helping to shape what is now Asia’s premier road racing series. Their joint efforts have consistently focused on delivering fair competition and world-class technical standards, ensuring that the championship remains a benchmark for motorcycle racing in the region.

Under the renewed contract, DUNLOP will supply high-performance racing tyres across all classes and provide comprehensive on-site technical support at every circuit. This long-term commitment reflects the deep trust between both organisations and their shared ambition to advance motorsports throughout Asia.

Ron Hogg, Promotion Director, TWMR, said, “I am delighted that we will be able to continue our partnership with DUNLOP through 2031. A collaboration spanning 30 years is a truly rare milestone and a testament to the unwavering passion both companies share for the development of motorsports in Asia. We are extremely proud of the strong relationship we have built over the years. As the championship continues to grow, we look forward to achieving even greater success together with DUNLOP for the future of motorsports in Asia.”

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Continental has responded to the changing landscape of modern gravel riding by adding a new 50 mm version of its Dubnital tyre to its product range. This tyre model first proved itself in fast paced cross country racing, where it became known for combining impressive rolling speed with dependable handling. Before this launch, gravel riders had already embraced the larger 55 mm Dubnital, and this slimmer 50 mm option now allows Continental to better serve those competing on increasingly aggressive and technical gravel courses.

Designed for surfaces ranging from dry to damp, including rocky trails, hardpack and medium loose dirt, the Dubnital 50 mm features a carefully arranged tread. Its smooth centre section keeps straight line riding efficient, while the raised shoulder knobs dig in to deliver strong braking traction and steady cornering when the ground turns rough or unpredictable. The tyre also incorporates Continental’s latest Tubeless Ready and hookless compatible designs, ensuring it works properly with current wheel systems without sacrificing the control or performance the Dubnital name stands for.

As gravel race routes become faster, rougher and more complex, this new 50 mm tyre is quickly becoming a top choice for cyclists seeking a genuine balance between speed, stability and toughness. For cross country and down country riding, the Dubnital remains a quick option for light mixed terrain and hardpack surfaces. But for gravel applications specifically, the 50 mm size unlocks a more aggressive setup, giving riders the confidence to handle tougher courses and unpredictable trail conditions.

Rosa Klöser, 2024 Life Time UNBOUND Gravel 200 winner and Continental Tires ambassador, said, “For me, the Dubnital 50 mm is one of the most anticipated tyres in gravel right now. Considering the clearance of most gravel bikes, adding a 50 mm Dubnital will make a lot of gravel fans very happy – including myself. The tyre inspires a huge amount of confidence, especially in corners where you can really maximise your speed thanks to its incredible grip and braking control. But what stands out for me is its versatility – it’s not just for technical gravel! It’s a fast, reliable all-rounder for riders who want extra comfort, grip and durability without sacrificing speed.”

Alexander Haenke, MTB and Gravel Product Manager, Continental Tires, said, “With the introduction of the Dubnital 50 mm, we are removing the boundaries between mountain biking and gravel once and for all. The Dubnital already surpassed its predecessor, the Race King, and now confidently straddles the line between the gravel and MTB segments. In this 50 mm dimension, it hits a distinct sweet spot for technically demanding off‑road races such as Traka, The Rift or Badlands. The Dubnital 50 mm delivers its well‑proven off‑road performance paired with low rolling resistance, high puncture protection and low weight — a trend born in the racing scene, now available to everyone.”

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