Trade Knowledge Matters

Global trade is being reshaped by rising protectionism, a struggling WTO, and the rapid growth of the digital economy. In this episode of Trade Knowledge Matters, Amar speaks with Ebere Ezike, International Trade Lawyer and Founder of AfCFTA Dialogues, and Ben McConkey, Economic Advisor to Somaliland's Ministry of Trade and Tourism and an ODI Fellow, about what these shifts mean for Africa and other low-income economies.

The conversation covers how countries can diversify trade partnerships, build regional value chains, and use AI and digital services to drive growth — even as multilateral trade rules come under strain. Ezike and McConkey also discuss the role of industrial policy in African development and what genuine resilience looks like in an increasingly fractured trading system.

Key Topics

• Protectionism as economic warfare and its impact on low-income nations
• WTO reform, plurilateral agreements, and the limits of multilateralism
• AI and the digital economy: opportunities for low-income countries
• Trade policy and industrial development in Africa
• Diversifying trade partners and building regional value chains
• Trade rules, commitments, and their role in development
• Building resilience through regional integration

Resources

African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)

World Trade Organization (WTO)

OECD Trade Policy Papers

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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 Review
• WTO Trade Policy Review mechanism
• CITP’s Animation on Improving UK Trade Policy

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Welcome to Season 5 of Trade Knowledge Matters.

To kick things off, Amar speaks with David Skilling, Director at Landfall Strategy.

They examine the impact of the Persian Gulf conflict on global trade, energy markets, and supply chain resilience, and outline how governments and businesses can respond to rising geopolitical uncertainty.

Key Topics:

• Impact of the Persian Gulf conflict on global trade and energy prices

• Strategies for governments and businesses to build resilience

• Supply chain diversification and regional trade routes

• The shift from cooperation to confrontation in international trade

• The role of regional blocs and emerging trade corridors

You can find Dr. Skilling on:

Landfall Strategy Group

LinkedIn

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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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LinkedIN: ⁠⁠⁠Trade Knowledge Exchange ⁠⁠⁠

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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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LinkedIN: ⁠⁠Trade Knowledge Exchange ⁠⁠

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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

Follow us on: 

Twitter: ⁠⁠@TKENews⁠⁠

LinkedIN: ⁠⁠Trade Knowledge Exchange ⁠⁠

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Also, we would like to hear from you, our listeners! Send us an email, ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠

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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

Chapters

Follow us on: 

Twitter: ⁠@TKENews⁠

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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:

Key Takeaways

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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LinkedIN: Trade Knowledge Exchange 

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Also, we would like to hear from you, our listeners! Send us an email, [email protected]

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