In this episode of Trade Knowledge Matters, we explore the intricate relationship between international trade and gender, highlighting historical contexts, current trends, and the challenges and opportunities faced by women in trade.

Our host, Amar sits down with experts Dr. Judith Fessehaie (Head, Women and Trade Programmes/SheTrades Initiative, ITC) and Dr. Simonetta Zarrilli (Adviser, ArtNet) to discuss the impact of global value chains, protectionism, and digital trade on women's participation in the economy, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies and collaboration across sectors to achieve gender equality in trade.

Key Takeaways

• Mainstream economics has historically neglected gender issues in trade policy.
• Women have played significant roles in trade throughout history.
• Global value chains have created new job opportunities for women.
• Despite progress, the gender pay gap remains a significant issue.
• Women are often underrepresented in leadership and ownership roles in trade.
• Rising protectionism poses new challenges for women in low-income countries.
• Sustainability standards can enhance gender equality in trade.
• Digital trade offers new avenues for women entrepreneurs.
• Intersectionality must be considered in trade policies.
• Collaboration among various stakeholders is essential for progress.

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If you have been wondering what De Minimis means and how it affects you or your business? This episode gives you an overview.

In this episode, Amar sits down with Carlos Grau Tanner, Director-General, Global Express Association (GEA) to discuss De Minimis and the tariffs placed on them by President Trump in April 2025. They explain what 'de minimis' is, how it affects consumers, MSMEs, and its impact on trade policy.

Key Takeaways

• De minimis provisions are crucial in trade policy.
• Threshold values for de minimis vary by country.
• These provisions help small businesses absorb costs.
• E-commerce growth is linked to de minimis rules.
• Changes to de minimis can impact consumer prices.
• Local businesses advocate for a level playing field.
• Customs efficiency is vital for trade facilitation.

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In this episode, Amar sits down with experts, Prof. Alan Winters, former Co-Director of the Centre for Inclusive Trade Policy (CITP), Emeritus Professor of Economics and Founding Director of the UK Trade Policy Observatory at the University of Sussex, and Prof. Lorand Bartels, Professor of International Law at Cambridge and a Counsel at Freshfields LLP and Chair of the UK Trade and Agriculture Commission. They discuss:

• The first hundred days of Trump's administration have seen significant changes in trade policy.
• Tariffs have been a central focus, with various motivations behind their implementation.
• The unpredictability of Trump's trade policy has caused chaos in financial markets.
• Countries are reacting differently to US tariffs based on their economic and security interests.
• The EU and Canada have taken significant steps in response to US tariffs, indicating a shift in global trade dynamics.
• The concept of reciprocal tariffs reflects a transactional approach to trade negotiations.
• The long-term implications of US trade policy could undermine the rules-based trading system.
• And more

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Global trade tensions are rising following the announcement of President Trump's Reciprocal Tariffs!

In this episode, Amar sits down with friends of the podcast and trade experts, Dr Deborah Elms, Head of Trade Policy, Hinrich Foundation and Dr. Anirudh Shingal, Professor of Economics, SP Jain Institute of Management and Research. They discuss the recent implementation of tariffs by the US on its trading partners, particularly focusing on the impact on Asian countries. They highlight the complexities of these tariffs, the varying effects on different countries, and the potential for regional responses and reforms. Both Deborah and Anirudh provide insights into how countries in Southeast Asia and South Asia are navigating these challenges, the importance of regional integration, and the prospects for future trade agreements.

Key Takeaways

• The US tariffs are based on bilateral deficits, not trade restrictions.
• Asian countries face significant tariff rates, impacting their economies.
• Cambodia and Vietnam are particularly affected by high tariffs.
• Countries may need to absorb tariff-induced price hikes or reduce import duties.
• ASEAN countries have diverse interests and challenges regarding tariffs.
• China's market dependency complicates Southeast Asia's trade strategies.
• Countries should use tariffs as an opportunity for internal reforms.
• Regional integration is essential for navigating trade challenges.
• India is actively pursuing trade agreements with multiple countries.
• Revisiting the India-ASEAN trade agreement could improve market access. Governments should focus on small businesses in trade policies.
• Legal language must be accessible to small businesses.
• Reconsidering non-starter ideas in trade is essential.
• India's trade policy needs significant reforms to compete globally.
• Services trade is crucial for economic growth in India.
• Removing barriers to services trade can boost manufacturing.
• Competition in global trade is increasing due to tariffs.
• Developing economies must be integrated into services trade.
• Current events may signify a historical turning point in trade.
• Leadership is needed to navigate the future of multilateralism.

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What exactly is trade in services? Why is it relevant when discussing trade and development, especially in Africa? How does it work?

If you have asked these questions, then this episode provides some of the answers. In this episode, Amar sits down with services experts, Beatrice Chaytor, Head of Trade in Services, AfCFTA and Prachi Agarwal, Research Fellow, International Economic Development Group, ODI Global. They discuss:

• The critical role of services trade in Africa's economic development, particularly in the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA).
• The importance of services in driving structural transformation, enhancing productivity, and fostering economic diversification.
• The challenges and opportunities with services trade
• And much more

Key Takeaways

• Trade policy extends beyond Washington DC to global contexts.
• Services trade is a rapidly growing component of the economy.
• Africa's services exports account for a small percentage of global trade.
• The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (ACFTA) aims to enhance regional trade.
• Services can drive economic growth and diversification in Africa.
• Investment in services can create jobs, especially for women and youth.
• The ACFTA includes protocols on trade in services and investment.
• Regional Economic Communities (RECs) play a crucial role in trade integration.
• Challenges include regulatory barriers and lack of awareness about services.

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In this episode of Trade Knowledge Matters, Amar discusses with Meredith Lilly, Professor and Simon Reisman Chair in International Economic Policy, Carleton University and Simon Lester, Founder, WorldTradeLaw.net and China Trade Monitor. He is also a non-resident Fellow at the Baker Institute. They delve into the implications of the recent US elections on global trade policy, particularly focusing on tariffs under the Trump administration.

Key Takeaways

• Trump's administration views tariffs as a multipurpose economic tool.
• The proposed tariffs could significantly impact American households.
• Canada and Mexico are particularly vulnerable to US tariff policies.
• Risk mitigation strategies are essential for trade partners.
• The USMCA provides a framework for ongoing trade negotiations.
• Digital services taxes may provoke US retaliation.
• China's trade practices will be a focal point in negotiations.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Trade Policy Post-Elections
• 02:35 Trump's Tariff Strategy and Its Implications
• 05:01 Routes for Tariff Implementation
• 07:56 Impact of Tariffs on Canada and Mexico
• 10:41 Risk Mitigation Strategies for Trade Partners
• 13:00 Negotiation Strategies with the Trump Administration
• 15:33 USMCA: Challenges and Opportunities
• 18:18 Future of USMCA and Trade Relations
• 26:20 Leveraging Canada's Energy and Resources
• 32:14 The Role of Services in Modern Trade Policy
• 40:33 Emerging Trade Clubs and Global Trade Governance
• 47:28 The Future of USMCA and Global Alliances

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In this episode of Trade Knowledge Matters, Amar discusses with Kimberley Botwright, Head of Sustainable Trade, World Economic Forum, and Sunayana Sasmal, Research Fellow in International Trade Law, UK Trade Policy Observatory at the University of Sussex. They delve into the significance of critical minerals in modern trade policy, exploring its role in economic development, environmental sustainability, and international cooperation. They cover:

• The challenges faced by resource-rich countries in accessing markets and moving up the value chain
• The importance of investment in processing
• The potential role of the WTO in facilitating trade rules
• And more

Key Takeaways

• Critical minerals are essential for modern industrial applications.
• The definition of critical minerals varies by country and context.
• Access to critical minerals is crucial for both economic and military applications.
• Developing countries face challenges in managing resource wealth.
• Investment in processing capacity is vital for resource-rich countries.
• Export restrictions can hinder market access and investment.
• The WTO plays a significant role in trade negotiations and dispute resolution

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Critical Minerals and Trade Policy

02:58 - The Importance of Critical Minerals in Modern Economy

05:00 - Balancing Access and Value Chain Development

11:06 - Investment Challenges and Development Finance

16:24 - The Role of WTO in Trade Rules and Critical Minerals

21:49 - Bilateral Agreements and International Cooperation

31:29 - Circularity and ESG Standards in Trade Policy

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To kick off Season 4 of Trade Knowledge Matters, we look at US Trade Policy. Amar sits down with William (Bill) Reinsch. Bill holds the Scholl Chair in International Business at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) and also co-hosts a podcast, Trade Guys.

This episode delves into the complexities of US trade policy, examining the shifts in bipartisan consensus, the impact of economic security on trade decisions, and the evolving narratives within political parties. The discussion highlights the implications of tariffs, friend shoring, and sectoral concerns, while also addressing the challenges of market access and much more.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to US Trade Policy

02:57 Shifts in Bipartisan Trade Consensus

06:10 Drivers of Trade Restriction in the US

09:07 Evolution of Trade Narratives in Political Parties

12:01 Economic Security and Friend Shoring

14:50 Key Sectors of Economic Security Concern

18:10 Assessing Policy Interventions for Economic Security

20:57 Market Access Challenges in US Trade Policy

24:08 Sectoral Engagement in Trade Negotiations

27:04 Carbon Emissions and Trade Policy Intersection

29:51 Digital Trade Dynamics and US Policy Changes

33:10 Developing a Positive Trade Narrative

You can find and listen Bill on his podcast, Trade Guys.

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On this episode of Trade Knowledge Matters, Amar discusses with Hiddo Houben, Deputy Head of the Permanent Mission of the European Union to the WTO, and Alicia Nicholls, International Trade Specialist and Research Fellow at the Shridath Ramphal Centre for International Trade Law, Policy and Services at the University of the West Indies in Barbados. Discussions on the WTO, reflecting on its 30 years of operation, the evolving landscape of global trade and the critical issues shaping its future. From the challenges faced by the WTO in upholding multilateralism to the nuanced discussions on trade and environmental policies, we delve into the complexities and opportunities that lie ahead.

Key Topics:

• The WTO's Legacy and Future
• The Role of Multilateralism
• Trade and Environmental Policies
• Special and Differential Treatment (S&D)
• Transparency and Technical Assistance

You can look over the 30 years of the WTO, here!

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In this episode of Trade Knowledge Matters, Amar discusses with Dr Anirudh Shingal, Professor, S. P. Jain Institute of Management and Research and Stuti Toshi, Trade and Investment Lawyer, on India's role in international trade and its approach to global trade challenges.

Some Takeaways:

• India is an important actor in the international trading system and a top global exporter of services.
• India has been a relatively reluctant participant in international trade rulemaking.
• The challenges and opportunities for India in the current state of flux in international trade include market access difficulties and the potential for decoupling from China.
• India's position in multilateral trade rules and the WTO is discussed, with a focus on its consistency with India's actual position in international trade.
• And more

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In this episode, Amar discusses with Dr Matthias Bauer, Director, ECIPE and Dr Deborah Elms, Head of Trade Policy, Hinrich Foundation on the concept of economic security and its implications. It explores the EU's measures and policy settings for economic security, as well as global trends in this area. The challenges and opportunities of economic security are examined, along with the growing intertwining of economic and security issues. And much more.

Takeaways

• Economic security is a complex and evolving concept that encompasses various concerns, including competitiveness, resilience, and protection of critical infrastructure.
• The EU has implemented measures and policies to address economic security, but there are challenges in effectively managing economic security and promoting innovation.
• The growing intertwining of economic and security issues is a global trend, with countries like the US, China, and Japan also pursuing economic security strategies.
• The use of subsidies in economic security can have unintended consequences and distort trade, making it important to consider the trade-offs and costs involved.
• Economists can contribute to the discussion on economic security by providing practical examples, highlighting the benefits of economic interdependence, and advocating for international cooperation and harmonisation of regulations.

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Also, we would like to hear from you, our listeners! Send us an email, events@trade-knowledge.net

And share with us your comments, thoughts or even perspectives on our episodes.

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To kick off, Season 3 of Trade Knowledge Matters, Amar Breckenridge discusses with Prof. David Luke, LSE and Colette van der Ven, Tulip Consulting on the impact and aftermath of CoP28 conclusions on Sub-Sahara Africa. This episode delves into the intersection of trade, climate policies, and their impact on sub-Saharan African economies. COP28 progress, particularly in fossil fuel transition, is highlighted, but gaps persist in low carbon transitions and carbon trading.

Key Takeaways:

• The interplay between trade and climate policies is complex and crucial.
• COP28 exhibited progress in fossil fuel transition but lacked in low carbon transitions and carbon trading.
• African economies need increased climate finance to bridge the gap for adaptation and loss and damage.
• Unilateral trade measures pose challenges, requiring careful consideration to avoid adverse impacts.
• A new trade deal for Africa should prioritize internal trade growth, sustainable sector investment, and integration of trade, environment, and development objectives.
• Successful outcomes hinge on addressing negotiating capacity and administrative constraints.
• Optimism exists for the future of African economies, requiring innovative approaches to policymaking and negotiation.

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Also, we would like to hear from you, our listeners! Send us an email, events@trade-knowledge.net

And share with us your comments, thoughts or even perspectives on our episodes.

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On this episode of Trade Knowledge Matters, Amar discusses with Aproop Bhave, Chief Economist, UK Trade Remedies Authority and Lorand Bartels, Professor of International Law at the University of Cambridge and Counsel, Freshfields LLP. In this episode they cover:

• The application of the Economic Interest Test (EIT) mandated by UK legislation and analyse the lessons learned from its implementation in the UK context.
• The challenges faced in transitioning to a low carbon economy, focusing on subsidies for green industries and the dilemma of balancing static and dynamic benefits against potential adverse effects on domestic producers
• The effectiveness of environmental regulations in trade, investigating the role of trade remedies in analysing distortions in foreign markets, market definition, and injury to domestic producers.
• And much more covered.

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On this episode of Trade Knowledge Matters, Amar discusses with Faten Aggad, previously with the Africa Climate Foundation as a Senior Advisor and Jodie Anne Keane, Senior Research Fellow at the ODI, about the African continents approach to climate issues and trade policy. In this episode they cover:

• Review of the call to actions from the recent Africa Climate Summit.
• The importance of Africa’s position in the global carbon market
• The impact of the EU’s CBAM on African economies.
• Building climate resilience while adapting to the changing patterns of comparative advantage 
• Looking ahead to the future and CoP 28 and the 13th WTO Ministerial Conference - Africa’s perspective on trade and climate 
• And much more covered.

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On this episode of Trade Knowledge Matters, Amar discusses with Eunice Huang, Lead of Digital Trade and Policy at Google and Prof. Erik van der Marel, Chief Economist at ECIPE about the impact of digital infrastructure on trade and the digital economy. In this episode they cover:

• The impact of generative AI on Trade.
• The opportunities for small business.
• Increased efficiency and actioning of Mode 1 trade.
• The issues surrounding regulating the digital economy and data flows.
• The impact of digital regulation fragmentation on small players and implementing foundational multilateral rules.

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On this episode of Trade Knowledge Matters, Amar discusses with Keith Rockwell, Senior Research Fellow, Hinrich Foundation and David Skillling, Founder and Director, Landfall Strategy, about the "New Washington Convergence", in-depth review of US Trade Policy following the Inflation Reduction Act. In this episode;

• Discussion on the current state of US Trade Policy and how we got here.
• Discussion on the Inflation Reduction Act and the mixed bag of policies it offers
• Discussion on how tenable is 'friendshoring' as a policy dictum.
• Discussion on the response of the WTO to the new trends in international trade and adaptation of the rules to the new. And so on.

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On this episode of Trade Knowledge Matters, Amar discusses with Sophie Hale (Resolution Foundation), Sophie Clark (UK Trade Policy Observatory) and Chris Horseman (Borderlex) about the current state of UK Trade Policy. In this episode;

• Discussion on the UK's trade performance since leaving the EU.
• Discussion on UKTPO's recent research focused on the challenges for UK businesses in the current trade context.
• Discussion on the factors that adversely affect UK businesses competitiveness.
• Discussion on the UK's services trade and the comparative advantage which could benefit growth.
• Discussion on the challenges posed by the current state of international trade relations.
• Discussion on trade policy priorities for the UK. 

You can find the research referenced in this episode here:

• Resolution Foundation's report on the UK trade performance since leaving the EU
• Resolution Foundation's Economy 2030 interim report on how to navigate a route to a fairer and more prosperous Britain.
• UKTPO's The Challenges Facing UK Firms: Trade and Supply Chains Report

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On this episode of Trade Knowledge Matters, Amar discusses with Colette van der Ven and Mahesh Sugathan about the Circular Economy and the role of trade policy. In this episode;

• Discussion on the potential of 'reverse value-chains' and policy barriers to be tackled.
• Discussion on international cooperation, rule-making and standardisation.
• Discussion on current WTO rules suited to the development of the circular economy globally.
• Discussion on FTAs as a useful tool for international cooperation in circular economy.
• Discussion on dumping of waste and developing economies within the circular economy.
• Discussion of barriers to the inputs supporting a circular economy. 

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Welcome to Season 2 of Trade Knowledge Matters Podcast!! 

Our first episode of Trade Knowledge Matters, Amar discusses with Simon Lester and Dmitry Grozoubinski about US Trade Policy and its global impact. In this episode;

• Discussion on the Biden Administration approach to Trade policy, does it follow on from Trump's policy more politely? and how is it perceived globally?
• Discussion on The US and China Phase 1 Deal.
• Discussion on ASEAN countries filling the gap left by China and how they can negotiate entrance into the markets.
• Discussion on WTO reform.
• Discussion on Tripolar Trade Blocs, EU vs US vs China
• Discussion on a US-UK Trade Deal and delivery of the promises from the previous administration.

P.s: This episode was recorded before the conclusion of the US Mid-Term Elections.

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Our fifth episode of Trade Knowledge Matters, Amar discusses with Dr. Deborah Elms and Dr. Anirudh Shingal about trade policy within Asia. In this episode;

• Discussion on the challenges with trade policies in Asia.  
• Discussion on Asia's approach to integration, RCEP and CPTPP.  
• Discussion on China's interest in the CPTPP.  
• Discussion on the role of India within Asia, its trade policy and potential agreement with the UK.
• Discussion on IPEF.
• Discussion on the UK's interest in joining the CPTPP.

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Also, we would like to hear from you, our listeners!!

Send us an email, events@trade-knowledge.net and share with us your comments, thoughts or even perspectives on our episodes.

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