Final answer:
A trading company typically engages in international procurement and selling activities, historically represented by joint-stock companies like the Dutch VOC. These entities evolved into modern multinational corporations that exert significant power across the globe, influencing and often lobbying governments for favorable operational conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
A trading company often refers to a business that connects buyers and sellers from different countries. However, in the context of the given materials, a trading company likely relates to the historical context of joint-stock companies, such as the Dutch Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie (VOC), which played a significant role in international trade and the early modern corporate world. These companies were the precursors to today's multinational corporations (MNCs), which strategically operate across multiple countries to produce goods and services.
As globalization has increased, MNCs have flourished with improvements in transportation and communication technology. Notably, since the 1950s, they've expanded their influence worldwide by lobbying governments to create favorable conditions for their operations. This growth has been further facilitated by the rise of international economic organizations like the WTO and the formation of regional trading blocs. An example of the corporate influence in global economics can be seen in the historic British East India Company, which had a notable impact during Europe's era of imperial expansion.
Moreover, various economic and political networks today transcend national borders, including NGOs and groups advocating for national identity. These entities contrast with MNCs, which are primarily focused on economic activities rather than cultural or activist pursuits.