Trade Knowledge Matters

Trade Knowledge Exchange

Trade Knowledge Matters is a fortnightly podcast under the Trade Knowledge Exchange, an initiative that brings together partner organisations across three continents to supply objective analysis on international trade matters. We discuss international trade and the challenges it faces, policy insights and analysis of international trade policy, specifically exploring UK trade policy.

  1. APR 30

    UK Trade Policy Review Explained: Post-Brexit Strategy, Growth, and Economic Security

    This episode examines a new independent review of UK trade policy conducted by the Centre for Inclusive Trade Policy, UK Trade Policy Observatory and Frontier Economics. Moving beyond description, the discussion focuses on how and why UK trade policy is evolving in a post-Brexit environment shaped by geopolitical fragmentation, economic security concerns, and competing domestic priorities. Moderated by Javier Gutierrez, Counsellor, External Relations, WTO, the conversation brings together Michael Gasiorek, Director, UKTPO and CITP and Amar Breckenridge, Senior Associate, Frontier Economics, to unpack the methodology, findings, and implications of the review. Key Takeaways UK trade policy remains anchored in multilateral principles but is increasingly constrained by global geopolitical shifts.Economic security is now a dominant policy driver, often in tension with growth and efficiency.There is a clear gap between stated policy goals and implementation, particularly on sustainability and inclusiveness.Greater transparency, stakeholder engagement, and policy evaluation are needed to improve effectiveness.The current global environment challenges the assumptions underpinning traditional UK trade strategy.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Trade Policy Review 02:38 The Importance of Transparency in Trade Policy 05:05 UK's Independent Trade Policy Post-Brexit 08:06 Engaging Stakeholders in Trade Policy 10:24 Insights from the Citizens' Jury 13:09 Mismatch Between Government and Public Priorities 15:39 Economic Security vs. Growth 18:17 Sustainability and Inclusivity in Trade Policy 20:11 Key Findings of the Trade Policy Review 23:32 Economic Security and Digital Transformation 27:55 Sustainability and Inclusion Challenges 32:14 The Role of Middle Powers in Trade 34:25 Replicability of the Trade Policy Review Model 39:01 Final Thoughts on Trade Policy Challenges Resources Mentioned UK Trade Policy ReviewWTO Trade Policy Review mechanismCITP’s Animation on Improving UK Trade Policy Follow us on:  Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠@TKENews⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIN: ⁠⁠⁠Trade Knowledge Exchange ⁠⁠⁠ Check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠. Also, we would like to hear from you, our listeners! Send us an email, ⁠⁠⁠events@trade-knowledge.net⁠⁠⁠ Please, rate, review, share and subscribe to our podcast.

    43 min
  2. 10/16/2025

    How Women Trade: Gender and Inclusive Trade Policy

    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. Follow us on:  Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠@TKENews⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIN: ⁠⁠⁠Trade Knowledge Exchange ⁠⁠⁠ Check out our ⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠. Also, we would like to hear from you, our listeners! Send us an email, ⁠⁠⁠events@trade-knowledge.net⁠⁠⁠ Please, rate, review, share and subscribe to our podcast.

    44 min
  3. 04/10/2025

    How Asia Is Responding to US Tariffs

    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. Follow us on:  Twitter: ⁠@TKENews⁠ LinkedIN: ⁠Trade Knowledge Exchange ⁠ Check out our ⁠⁠website⁠⁠. Also, we would like to hear from you, our listeners! Send us an email, ⁠events@trade-knowledge.net⁠ Please, rate, review, share and subscribe to our podcast.

    41 min
  4. 03/06/2025

    Services Trade: The Invisible Trade

    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. Follow us on:  Twitter: ⁠@TKENews⁠ LinkedIN: ⁠Trade Knowledge Exchange ⁠ Check out our ⁠⁠website⁠⁠. Also, we would like to hear from you, our listeners! Send us an email, ⁠events@trade-knowledge.net⁠ Please, rate, review, share and subscribe to our podcast.

    51 min
  5. 11/21/2024

    Trump Wins: Trade Strategy Under His Administration

    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 Follow us on:  Twitter: ⁠@TKENews⁠ LinkedIN: ⁠Trade Knowledge Exchange ⁠ Check out our ⁠⁠website⁠⁠. Also, we would like to hear from you, our listeners! Send us an email, ⁠events@trade-knowledge.net⁠ Please, rate, review, share and subscribe to our podcast.

    51 min

About

Trade Knowledge Matters is a fortnightly podcast under the Trade Knowledge Exchange, an initiative that brings together partner organisations across three continents to supply objective analysis on international trade matters. We discuss international trade and the challenges it faces, policy insights and analysis of international trade policy, specifically exploring UK trade policy.

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