Trade Policy Decoded

In this episode of Trade Policy Decoded, Pru and Peter are joined by Dr Harry Wardana from the University of Adelaide. Harry presents fascinating insights into Indonesia's vision for its future and the role international trade and investment, particularly trade agreements, will play in that. Harry's frank about the challenges and contradictions that create hurdles for foreign investors who are critical for Indonesia's economic growth. The end of the podcast has a great kicker in Harry's description of how Australia's emissions reduction efforts are creating investment opportunities for Indonesian companies in Australia, that are, in turn, supporting Indonesia's green transition. A super podcast!

In this episode of Trade Policy Decoded, Pru and Peter share the popcorn while chatting about President Biden's decision to step aside as candidate for the US Democratic Party and its implications for US trade policy. They then delve into the populist lean seen in recent European and French elections and what it means for EU trade policy and the EU-Australia FTA. They wrap up with a discussion on the EU's initiatives to build its defence industries and the uncomfortable fit between inward-turning populist movements and the national security imperatives requiring closer cooperation with like-mindeds.

Recorded on 25 July 2024

If you only listen to one podcast on international trade policy this year - make it this one.

Pru and Peter talk to Vangelis Vitalis, Deputy Secretary, Trade and Economic, of the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and one of the most experienced and insightful trade diplomats around.

Vangelis explains progress on accessions to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for

He then describes New Zealand's incredibly positive and proactive approach to the seismic shifts rocking the global economy and geopolitics.

As with rugby - Australia could learn a lesson or two here from our NZ cousins!

Countries are increasingly turning back to industry policy in order to meet the climate change challenge and secure national security objectives. In this episode of Trade Policy Decoded, Pru and Peter discuss what industry policy is and the tensions between trade and industry policy. They also delve into Australia's own attempt at industry policy in the form of the Future Made in Australia Act and associated budget measures.

Countries are increasingly adopting emissions reduction measures that conflict with international trade law. In this episode of Trade Policy Decoded, Pru and Peter look at some examples, including the EU's CBAM, US Inflation Reduction Act, Chinese Government support for low emissions industries and Australia's new fuel standards, as well as the damage these measures have on the international rules-based system. Fascinating listening and a forerunner to an upcoming episode on Australia's 'Future Made in Australia' Act.

Digital trade has become a foundational part of global trade. Governments are playing catchup as technology and business practices evolve.

In this episode, Peter and Pru explore what digital trade encompasses, key digital trade issues for trade negotiators, the US's decision to step back from its support for important JSI provisions, the Australian Government's support for traditional media over the large media platforms, and so much more. Who'd have thought we could fit so much into a 29-minute podcast!!!!

India's economic settings are increasingly impacted by new opportunities created by geostrategic developments. In this episode of Trade Policy Decoded, Pru and Peter explore the clear signs of India moving forward with new policies and trade agreements aimed at India capitalising on open markets, coupled with India's traditional and more protectionist trade policy approaches.

With the 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) of the World Trade Organisation recently concluding in Abu Dhabi, Pru and Peter discuss the reasons for the few positive outcomes from the meeting and the increasing challenges to the multilateral system. This includes the possibility of the US withdrawing from the WTO under a potential second Trump Administration.

Recorded on 7 March 2024.

In this episode of Trade Policy Decoded, Pru and Peter talk to Australia's Special Envoy for Southeast Asia - Nicholas Moore AO about Australia's strategy to develop our economic relationship with Southeast Asia.

Former CEO of Macquarie Bank, Nicholas Moore AO does a great job explaining the different ways government versus business see economic opportunities in Southeast Asia. He gives a rich summary of the key recommendations in the strategy report and highlights the real opportunities and great potential in Australia's investment and trade relationship with our northern neighbours.

With the 2024 ASEAN-Australia Special Summit happening in Melbourne on 4-6 March - this discussion is particularly timely.