The New Rules of International Trade

Since the end of World War 2, international trade has been shaped by a rules-based system. This system was designed to promote cooperation, stability and economic development. Today, however, that system is facing increasing pressure from geopolitical tensions, protectionism and strategic competition between states.

These changes coincides with a broader trend of democratic decline. As a growing number of economically and politically influential countries move in a more authoritarian direction, the conditions for international cooperation, trade relations and global governance are changing. Trade policy, often through tariffs and export controls, is increasingly being used as a tool of economic security, industrial policy and geopolitical influence."

What do these developments mean for the future of global trade? This Prince Bertil seminar explores the relationship between the changing role of international institutions and regulations for the EU, Sweden and international firms.

Speakers and topics

Trisha Rajput, Researcher, Dept of Law
China, US and the new Great Game: WTO in Perspective

Cecilia Malmström, former EU Commissioner and Elof Hansson Research Fellow
EU trade policy. Can Europe lead a coalition of middle powers?

Jonas Rybrand - Volvo Cars - Head of product strategy
Effects on firm-level strategic decision-making and actions

Moderator: Johan Jakobsson, Senior lecturer and Chair Prince Bertil Foundation Programme Committee