Introductory description

This module will assess how trade policy is determined and discuss the possible outcomes associated with different approaches to policy. The direction of trade policy across countries and regions has major implications for businesses both in terms of their own overseas expansion plans as well as likely competition from foreign organisations. In addition, it can also have implications for the economy and society, more generally, in terms of technological development, innovation, sustainable growth, inequality, job creation and household wellbeing.

The module will assess the role of trade policy within the broader social, political and economic policy context. It will assess the development of trade policy across different countries and regions and analyse the role of global forums such as the World Trade organisation. It will consider the influence of lobbying groups on trade policy and their role in trade agreement negotiations. The key features of trade agreements will be discussed along with the negotiation process behind them.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

The main topics covered in the module are likely to include:
An assessment of current and historic trade policies in selected countries and regions such as the UK, the EU, the USA and emerging markets.
A discussion of current bilateral and multilateral trade agreements such as CPTPP and ASEAN.
A discussion the role of global forums such as the WTO and the United Nations in determining trade policy.
An evaluation of the process leading to the creation of trade agreements including the role of interest and lobbying groups.
A discussion of the importance of market access measures such as tariffs/customs procedures and regulatory measures such as standards and rules of origin in trade policy.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Evaluate the development and implications of trade policies across different countries and regions
• Critically assess the nature of existing trade agreements and the process by which new trade agreements are negotiated
• Assess the role and importance of interest groups and lobbying organisations in the development of trade policy
• Evaluate the role of trade policy within broader economic, social and political policy perspectives
• Critically assess, collaboratively, the strategies and objectives adopted by countries in trade negotiations

Indicative reading list

Klasen, A. (2020) The Handbook of Global Trade Policy. Oxford: Wiley Blackwell ISBN 978-1-119-16738-9

View reading list on Talis Aspire

International

Trade policy will be considered from a global perspective taking account of intercultural differences and the international diversity of the student body on the degree programme

Subject specific skills

Understanding of the role of trade policy within a broader policy context, development and implications of trade agreements, role of global forums in trade policy, role of interest groups in trade policy, recognising the importance of sustainability in trade policy.

Transferable skills

Teamworking, critical thinking, problem solving, communication, intercultural awareness, professionalism, sustainability.