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

Chapters

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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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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:

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:

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