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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Sun Auto has expanded its strategic footprint by acquiring two locations: Highland Auto in Tennessee and Highland Tire at Sentry Station in Georgia. This marks the company’s first entry into Georgia and adds a fourth Tennessee site, enhancing regional network connectivity.

The move supports Sun Auto’s broader 2026 growth campaign, which includes new operations in Colorado and brings the company’s total presence to 27 states nationwide. Both acquired shops join the Sun Auto Network, gaining access to 24/7 online scheduling, digital vehicle inspections and the company’s Driver Commitment focused on clarity, confidence and customer care.

Each location provides a full range of automotive services, including major tyre brands with a price match guarantee, alignments, brake service, oil changes, batteries, diagnostics and preventative maintenance. Sun Auto now operates over 575 locations nationwide through both acquisitions and new builds.

Chris Tavares, SVP Operations, Sun Auto, said, "Expanding into the Southeast is an important step in strengthening our national footprint and positioning our network for long-term growth. Establishing a presence in Georgia allows us to serve more customers, support our teams with greater regional resources and build stronger continuity across key markets."

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Hankook Tire has formally launched a major national research initiative at its advanced Hankook Technodome facility in Daejeon. The kick-off gathering took place on 4 June to begin work on a project titled ‘Development of Tire Manufacturing Technologies Using Sustainable Materials’, which falls under the Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment’s 2026 Environmental Technology Development Program.

The core objective of this undertaking is to accelerate South Korea’s transition to a circular economy by deriving high-grade recycled inputs from discarded tyres. Two parallel tracks of research involve creating premium reclaimed materials from waste rubber and establishing manufacturing processes that rely on sustainable components. Hankook Tire has been a driving force in this field since 2023, leading the domestic Tire-to-Tire consortium, and has already brought to market the iON GT, an electric vehicle tyre composed of over 70 percent sustainable content.

Participation in this government-backed programme allows Hankook to broaden its existing private sector work into a larger cooperative framework that includes universities, research bodies and industry partners. The company intends to strengthen its ability to adapt to evolving environmental rules while making its raw material supply chains more resilient. The project consortium brings together 11 entities, with M&B Green Earth acting as the lead institution alongside Kumho Petrochemical, HS Hyosung, Solvay, KRICT, KAIST and several other academic and technical organisations.

Hankook Tire ultimately targets the commercial release of next-generation, low-carbon tyres containing more than 85 percent sustainable materials and capable of cutting carbon emissions by over half. The project will also allow for large-scale validation of the domestic Tire-to-Tire circular model through product demonstrations and integrated performance assessments. Further demonstrating its commitment, the company recently attended the April launch of the Eco-design Forum, where industry players discussed compliance with the EU Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation.

Bonhee Koo, Head of the R&D Innovation Division at Hankook Tire, said, “This national R&D project presents a meaningful opportunity to bring together the expertise of leading industry, academic and research institutions. Through close communication and collaboration among all participating organisations, we will strive to deliver tangible outcomes that contribute to strengthening competitiveness in the global market.”

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American tyre brand General Tire has officially widened its all-terrain product family by unveiling the Grabber AT3 Plus, a new all-season tyre engineered for unpredictable weather and rugged off-road use. The launch addresses the rising popularity of both traditional 4x4 vehicles and the rapidly expanding sport utility vehicle segment, offering a single solution that balances highway driving with trail capability.

When measured against the previous model, the latest Grabber delivers superior snow traction and enhanced wet-road grip thanks to a thoroughly reengineered tread design that visually signals its off-road intentions. Durability remains a priority, as both the compound and tread pattern have been optimised for harsh conditions while still providing precise handling and reduced cabin noise. The tyre is built for year-round use on pavement and dirt, and every available dimension bears the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol, ensuring legal compliance for winter driving across numerous countries.

Upon its release, the Grabber AT3 Plus will be offered in rim diameters ranging from 15 to 22 inches, widths between 195 and 315 millimetres and aspect ratios of 80 down to 40 percent. Certain sizes carry LT identification along with LRD and LRE load ratings, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications, while speed ratings can reach up to 240 kilometres per hour. To achieve its balance of toughness, grip and ride quality, General Tire integrates three proprietary systems: TracGen for loose-surface traction and on-road precision, Comfort Balance for smooth rolling and noise reduction and DuraGen for cut-resistant tread blocks and stone bumpers.

A rugged sidewall with a pronounced shoulder, clear tread markings and logo detailing gives the tyre an assertive appearance that complements modern SUVs and off-road vehicles. Depending on the dimension, the Grabber AT3 Plus earns a C grade for wet braking, a B for noise emissions and most commonly a D for rolling resistance.

Matthias Bartz, Business Development Manager – EMEA, General Tire, said, “Our R&D department has achieved a remarkable feat in further developing the leading Grabber AT3. The Grabber AT3 Plus delivers improvements across all key performance areas – without any compromises.”

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Michelin North America, Inc. is participating once again in a special journey to transport World War II veterans to Normandy, France, in observance of the 82nd anniversary of D-Day. The initiative is carried out in collaboration with the Best Defense Foundation and Delta Air Lines, reflecting a unified effort to preserve the memory of veteran courage and sacrifice through direct, intergenerational experiences rather than solely through historical texts.

A charter flight carrying the veterans departed on 2 June, accompanied by caregivers and volunteers from the partner organisations. Over the course of a nine-day stay, the group will attend commemorative ceremonies and celebrations marking the anniversary. The Best Defense Foundation views the journey as not merely a commemoration but a meaningful opportunity for connection.

This year’s programme again includes students selected through the Best Defense Foundation’s NextGen initiative, who travel alongside the veterans as escorts and witnesses. From Omaha Beach to Pegasus Bridge and Carentan, the students will explore historic sites with those who lived through the events, ensuring that the stories of service members are passed on with authenticity and respect.

The collaboration among Michelin, the Best Defense Foundation and Delta Air Lines began in 2021 and has brought veterans back to France each year since the 78th anniversary in 2022. Michelin’s historic link to D-Day dates to spring 1944, when the 1939 Michelin Guide’s detailed maps were reprinted by Allied commanders to aid navigation in France. The company later produced additional maps for Allied advances, earning formal recognition from Allied Forces, and continues that legacy today through acts of remembrance and return.

Matthew Cabe, President and CEO, Michelin North America, Inc., said, “It is deeply meaningful and humbling for Michelin to stand alongside these veterans in Normandy. Supporting this initiative is one way we demonstrate our deep gratitude for these heroes and ensure the significance of their service is carried forward for generations to come.”

Bob Somers, Senior Vice President – Global Sales, Delta, said, “As we mark the fifth year of the Normandy Legacy Flight, we are reminded that carrying forward a legacy of this magnitude requires partners who share not only our values but a deep sense of purpose and responsibility. We are profoundly grateful for our partnership with Michelin, whose steadfast commitment and collaboration make this mission possible year after year. Together, we are honoured to pay tribute to our nation’s greatest heroes by preserving their legacy, honouring their sacrifice and ensuring their stories endure for generations to come.”

Donnie Edwards, Founder, Best Defense Foundation, said, “Michelin's commitment to this mission goes beyond sponsorship. It is a shared belief that the men and women who fought for our freedom deserve to be remembered, honoured and heard. Because of partners like Michelin, we are able to bring veterans back to the places that shaped history and ensure their stories live on in the people who will carry them forward.”

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