At the start of 2020, the international trade system was already in a perilous situation, struggling to adapt to the rise of economic protectionism, a trade war between the US and China and the longer-term need to align trade and climate policies. Now, the COVID-19 pandemic has further compounded the picture for global trade, bringing into sharp focus the need to rethink the structures that underpin the global trade system particularly those reliant on international supply chains.
In the context of current geo-economic dynamics and rapid technological transformations, this discussion will examine the way forward for global trade. After the surprise early resignation of its director-general, will the World Trade Organization be reformed to address current challenges and look to rebalance the system? Who might be best placed to lead necessary reforms? Will new institutions or bilateral arrangements shape global trade governance? And with US elections in November 2020, what is the outlook for US-China economic relations and how can other regions and nations navigate this great power rivalry?
This roundtable is part of the Chatham House Global Trade Policy Forum.
This event is only open to Chatham House Partners and Major Corporate Members as well as selected giving circles of Chatham House. If you would like to attend, please RSVP to [email protected].
Participants
Pascal Lamy, Director-General, World Trade Organisation (2005-13)
Baroness Ashton, Senior Adviser, Chatham House; High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy; First Vice President of the European Commission (2009-14)
Chair: Dr Robin Niblett CMG, Director and Chief Executive, Chatham House
