International Trade
Articles tagged with International Trade
University of Utah announces new Institute for Critical and Strategic Minerals
The University of Utah has launched a new Institute for Critical and Strategic Minerals (ICSM) to address the US's growing reliance on foreign critical minerals. The institute aims to expand sustainable, domestic sources and production of critical minerals through education, workforce development, and cutting-edge research.
Americans back NATO; Republicans split along Trump-party lines
A majority of Americans value U.S. membership in NATO and consider it a meaningful security asset, but views are sharply divided along partisan lines. Democrats are more supportive of NATO than Republicans, who hold less favorable views on the alliance's benefits to U.S. security.
40 migratory animal species receive new or upgraded protection at close of UN meeting in Brazil
Parties to the Convention on Migratory Species agree to list 40 additional species on Appendices I and II, including iconic species like cheetahs, hyenas, and great hammerhead sharks. The agreement also includes multi-species conservation plans for key regions like the Amazon.
New UN-backed atlas maps migratory lifelines of highly vulnerable bird species across the americas
The Americas Flyways Atlas charts critical habitats spanning 56 countries, revealing key breeding, stopover, and wintering sites for 89 highly vulnerable migratory bird species. The atlas provides governments with a blueprint to protect these birds from habitat loss, infrastructure, and climate change.
Global initiative to address mounting pressures from illegal and unsustainable taking of migratory species announced at UN wildlife conference
The Global Initiative on the Taking of Migratory Species (GTI) aims to tackle the root causes of illegal and unsustainable taking, safeguarding wildlife and livelihoods. The initiative focuses on improving data, strengthening laws, engaging communities, and raising awareness.
Amid new findings that more migratory species of animals are facing extinction nations gather in Brazil to agree on actions
Nations are coming together at the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) to address declining population trends and extinction threats among migratory species. The meeting aims to establish conservation policies and protections for over 2,000 species under threat.
Share of migratory wild animal species with declining populations despite UN treaty protections worsens from 44% to 49% in two years; 24% face extinction, up 2%
The interim update to the State of the World's Migratory Species report warns that 49% of migratory species populations are declining, with 24% facing extinction, due to habitat loss and overexploitation. The report highlights the need for coordinated international action to address these threats and protect migratory species.
Drug-related homicides increased in Mexico after NAFTA
A study by University of Cologne researchers found a significant increase in drug-related homicides along strategic trafficking routes after NAFTA came into force in 1994. The homicide rate among males aged 15-39 increased by 2.1 cases per 100,000 in these regions.
Businesses can either lead transformative change or risk extinction: IPBES
A new report by the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) emphasizes the critical role of businesses in halting and reversing biodiversity loss. Businesses can either drive transformative change or risk extinction, as they rely on and impact nature. The report provides methods and 100+ actions for bu...
Experts show how major UK food crisis might occur
A new report by Anglia Ruskin University and the University of York identifies key weaknesses in the UK's food system and recommends interventions to prevent disruptions from escalating into a crisis. The study suggests increasing energy security, diversifying food value chains, and promoting varied diets to reduce risks.
Great power rivalry is reshaping global supply chains, new study shows
A new study from the Stockholm School of Economics shows how growing rivalry between major powers is pushing firms to rethink their sourcing, production capacity, and supplier relationships. Companies are diversifying suppliers, reducing dependence on single countries for critical inputs, and relocating or duplicating production to dif...
Cleaner ship fuel is reducing lightning in key shipping lanes, research finds
Research from the University of Kansas finds that cuts in sulfur emissions from oceangoing vessels have led to a reduction in lightning stroke density along heavily trafficked shipping routes in the Bay of Bengal and South China Sea. The drop in sulfates from ships can cause fewer cloud condensation nuclei, resulting in weaker convecti...
Export concentration leaves Canada's canola sector vulnerable, research finds amid trade talks
New research from The Simpson Centre reveals Canada's canola sector faces structural vulnerabilities due to reliance on China and the US for exports. Limited capacity to reallocate shipments to alternative destinations creates distinct risks across different segments of the canola value chain.
Cross-border M&A activity predicts changes in economic growth, foreign exchange returns
Researchers found a predictive relationship between cross-border deal activity and future economic growth, with high outflows predicting domestic weakness and inflows predicting stronger conditions. The study analyzed nearly 25 years of data on cross-border deals involving over 40 countries.
A new Japanese study investigates how tariff policies influence long-run economic growth
A new Japanese study uses a two-country model to investigate the impact of tariff policies on economic growth outcomes across countries. The researchers found that similar trade policies can lead to very different growth outcomes across countries, depending on a country's existing industrial structure.
The suspension of the foreign corrupt practices act generated record gains for companies involved in overseas corruption cases
The suspension of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act generated record gains for companies involved in overseas corruption cases. Companies that had been subject to investigations or sanctions under the FCPA collectively gained around $39 billion, with individual companies recording increases in market capitalization of billions of dollars.
Research shows informed traders never let a good climate crisis go to waste
Researchers found that fossil fuel firms experience significant spikes in informed trading during COP meetings, with investors trading ahead of market. The study estimates that informed traders could have earned up to $25 billion across the COP meetings and 87 firms studied.
Volcanic eruptions set off a chain of events that brought the Black Death to Europe
Researchers found a link between mid-14th-century volcanic activity and the start of the Black Death, which killed millions across Europe. The study suggests that climate-driven trade changes carried the deadly bacterium Yersinia pestis, leading to widespread devastation.
Competing rivals can become powerful partners in global markets
European SMEs can access Chinese networks and financing through coopetition, while Chinese firms benefit from advanced technology. The arrangement requires careful management of trust and protection to mitigate risks.
Conflict, climate change and public health
The Lancet Countdown report links climate change to violence and community health, emphasizing the need for social and economic changes to prevent conflict. Strengthening food systems and ensuring emergency responses can reduce grievances and protect healthcare workers.
European voters say no to tariffs
A new study based on responses from 5,500 people in Germany and the UK found that European voters overwhelmingly reject imposing trade tariffs. Despite being asked to support green investments and respond to Donald Trump's new trade policies, participants preferred other economic solutions over tariffs.
Happiness is not found in fast fashion – reducing consumption improves body image and well-being
A new study from the University of Vaasa finds that reducing clothing consumption improves body image and overall well-being. By extending the lifespan of clothes, individuals can reduce social comparison and increase self-esteem.
Farmed totoaba could curb poaching
Researchers find that farmed totoaba could alleviate poaching pressures by establishing a regulated trade. The study suggests that a market-based solution may be more effective than a regulatory approach in curbing poaching. A $6 million subsidy program could make farming cheaper and prevent further decline of the wild population.
Do imported cut flowers spread livestock viruses?
Researchers investigated whether cut flowers from Africa could spread livestock viruses through tiny biting midges. While no midges were found in packaging or transport areas, the study highlights potential risks and suggests measures to reduce them.
Moving abroad as a child becomes a professional superpower in adulthood
A study by Mireka Caselius found that children who moved abroad as kids develop unique skills such as social adaptability and tolerance for stress, making them highly sought-after employees in the global job market. These young adults often pursue careers with an international dimension, reflecting their adaptable nature.
MSU study unpacks what ‘Made in USA’ claims really mean to consumers
A new MSU study explores the perceptions of consumers regarding 'Made in USA' labels, finding that confusion exists and reality often exceeds or falls short of expectations. Researchers analyzed survey data from 131 adult respondents to better understand consumer attitudes towards domestic production and labeling.
Small-world networks can mitigate ESG controversies for multinationals, suggests new study
A new study suggests that MNEs can control crises and reduce supplier-induced ESG controversies by building small-world supply networks. This approach enables MNEs to moderate the behaviors of their suppliers, improving sustainability and reducing reputational risks.
Economic success and ethical supply chains are not mutually exclusive
A study of France's supply chain law found no evidence that it harms companies' profits, contradicting business lobby narratives. The law requires due diligence on human rights, health and safety, and environmental standards, but did not discourage companies from participating in voluntary initiatives.
Confronting China’s grip on graphite for batteries
The US relies heavily on Chinese graphite for battery production, with prices twice as high as importing it from China. To address this, the STEER initiative proposes lowering costs through financing, technological innovation, and domestic recycling, but faces challenges including lengthy qualification timelines.
Brexit: is it farewell to capital? The UK has turned off the tap for EU startups. Europe still invests across the channel
A recent study by Politecnico di Milano found that UK investors cut back on European investments after Brexit, while EU investors waited for clarity before increasing their investments. This suggests that Brexit raised uncertainty in the market for financing innovative entrepreneurship.
Can legal obstacles delay Japan’s plans to achieve carbon neutrality?
A recent study found that Japan's growth-oriented carbon pricing initiatives face litigations against renewable energy projects, highlighting the need for early stakeholder involvement and cooperation with local communities. The study also reveals a disparity in scale between Japanese and American climate investments.
Africa needs more large firms, not more entrepreneurs, for economic growth
Researchers argue that boosting entrepreneurship is counterproductive to Africa's economic development due to a lack of large firms. The study suggests that focusing on building large firms and adopting strategies from East Asia's successful growth models could be more effective.
MSU study unpacks how 2025 tariffs shocked global supply chain
A new study from Michigan State University explores the economic shock of the largest series of U.S. tariff hikes since 1930, reshaping global supply chains. The framework helps researchers and policymakers understand the chaos and make sense of future disruptions.
For developing countries, seafood imports are a nutritional bargain
A study published in Nature Communications found that developing countries get more nutrition per dollar in seafood imports than developed countries. They receive more protein, fatty acids, iron, and vitamin B12 per dollar, largely because they pay less for non-nutritional attributes like convenience.
Green hydrogen from Africa much more costly than previously assumed
A new study by TUM reveals that African green hydrogen production is much more costly than previously assumed, with only 2% of investigated locations being competitive. To make exports to Europe viable, governments and policymakers must provide price and offtake guarantees.
Tracking the effects of trade shocks
A study by Associate Professor Chang Pao-Li explores how trade shocks propagate through firm-to-firm linkages, affecting productivity, labor demand, and innovation. The research aims to quantify the positive effects of multinational enterprises on local economies, including increased labor demand and higher wages.
New research reveals unexpected benefit of tariffs – managers make better investment decisions
A study of firms in China found that trade shocks have a positive impact on managerial behavior, improving investment decisions and reducing inefficiencies. The researchers discovered that tariffs and sanctions concentrate managers' minds on efficiency and focus resources towards more lucrative projects.
90-day tariff break risks major shipping disruption, says report
A recent report by Complexity Science Hub and Supply Chain Intelligence Institute Austria warns of destabilization in global trade and maritime transport. The expected consequences include price increases, logistical bottlenecks, congestion, and delays in transportation, especially on the US West Coast.
Just 100 corporations behind a fifth of global extractive conflicts, study reveals
A recent study reveals that just 100 corporations are behind a fifth of global extractive conflicts, exacerbating environmental and social harms in the Global South. The companies, mainly from the Global North, engage in high-value resource extraction and transport, concentrating wealth while transferring harms to local populations.
Culture is the silent force behind slow mobile payment adoption
A new study from the University of Surrey found that cultural values significantly impact consumers' acceptance of mobile payments. The research identified five key cultural orientations that shape technology adoption, highlighting the need for businesses to develop targeted marketing messages.
Study reveals vast Aztec trade networks behind ancient obsidian artifacts
Researchers analyzed 788 obsidian artifacts from the Templo Mayor, finding diverse sources of obsidian used for both ritual and everyday objects. The study suggests a complex economy that relied on conquest and active trade with rival polities.
ESMT Berlin becomes an innovation partner of the ECB for the digital euro
ESMT Berlin collaborates with ECB to develop digital euro functionalities, focusing on programmed payments and smart contracts. The Digital Euro Hub platform will simulate programmed payments and test smart contracts.
Decarbonization improves energy security for most countries, Stanford study finds
A Stanford study finds that a pivot to clean energy technologies by 2060 would improve energy security and reduce trade risks for most nations. The study analyzed potential new vulnerabilities under decarbonization relative to those associated with continued reliance on fossil fuels.
Global cost of 2025 tariff war could reach $1.4 trillion
A new report from Aston University estimates the economic fallout from six US trade tariff scenarios, highlighting vulnerabilities for the UK and potential opportunities for trade diversification. The report calls on policymakers to develop a pragmatic approach to balance short-term gains with long-term stability.
Trade tariffs on Canadian pharmaceuticals expected to increase costs in the U.S. and strain drug supply chains
New research from the University of Toronto warns that applying trade tariffs on Canadian pharmaceuticals could add $750 million in cost to the U.S. market and disrupt drug supply chains. The study highlights the potential for shortages and jeopardizes patient care, particularly for medications with no alternative supplier.
Sexism in the City traces history of forgotten pioneers
A new book by Lancaster University historian James Taylor highlights the lives of pioneering female stockbrokers who challenged societal beliefs about women and money. The study reveals how these women fought against exclusion and ultimately won the right to join the London Stock Exchange in 1973.
Chinese contractors in Belt and Road initiative face greater challenges in democratic countries, study shows
A new study by University of Exeter researchers finds that Chinese contractors win significantly more contracts in authoritarian countries with similar economic profiles to China. In contrast, democratic countries with strong institutions limit business opportunities for Chinese firms.
Violent crime is indeed a root cause of migration, according to new study
A new study from Texas A&M University's Mosbacher Institute found that reducing violent crime in El Salvador significantly decreased Central American emigration to the US. Homicide rates dropped by 87% after President Nayib Bukele implemented a crackdown, resulting in a 45-67% reduction in border apprehensions.
Enhancing shareholder accountability: Lessons from Japan’s corporate governance reforms
A study from Waseda University found that Japan's Stewardship Code amendment encouraged institutional investors to disclose their voting records, leading to increased shareholder dissent in director elections. Domestic investors were more likely to react than foreign investors, with dissent strongest against underperforming directors.
As CITES turns 50, Oxford researchers urge reforms to improve global wildlife trade regulation
Researchers at University of Oxford critically evaluated CITES effectiveness, highlighting critical flaws in state-led law enforcement approach and socio-economic analysis exclusion. They propose a new decision support tool based on inclusive governance processes to revise or redesign CITES rules and regulations.
Study of 16 years of US-Canada free trade agreement finds that workers were not hurt by freer trade
A 16-year study of the US-Canada free trade agreement found that workers were not harmed by increased trade between the two countries. Canadian workers quickly adjusted to changing labor demand and transitioned to new industries, benefiting from larger U.S. tariff cuts.
How to reduce environmental impact with diet: a Politecnico study published in Nature
A Politecnico study proposes a global model that optimizes agricultural and water resources, making the EAT-Lancet diet a sustainable possibility. The model suggests crop redistribution and trade flow improvements could reduce global cropland by 37-40% and irrigation water use by 78%.
Snakes in potted olive trees ‘tip of the iceberg’ of ornamental plant trade hazards
Researchers warn of environmental risks posed by snakes and insects in imported ornamental plants, calling for improved regulations and sustainable practices. The study highlights the difficulty of monitoring and controlling pests due to high-volume trade, posing a threat to ecosystems and human health.
Big firms, big impact: How major exporters drive trade volatility
A study by the University of Surrey and Bank of France reveals that large exporters are a major contributor to global trade fluctuations. The researchers found that these firms are more sensitive to economic shocks and can cause catastrophic declines in exports during crises.
Miracle, or marginal gain?
A study by MIT economists suggests that industrial policy has a relatively limited impact on GDP growth, with average long-run gains of 1.08% in favorable circumstances. The research indicates that local consumer demand can curb the impact of industrial policy, putting a ceiling on directed growth.
The great ripple - how a tsunami can disrupt global trade
A new framework evaluates tsunami risk to seaports and the global port network, estimating potential economic losses in trade caused by port disruptions. The study found that a Manila Trench tsunami could damage up to 15 international seaports under present-day sea-level conditions.
Study calls for city fashion waste shakeup
A study published in Nature Cities analyzed textile waste in various cities, finding that most donated clothes are exported or thrown away. Experts call for a change in how cities handle fashion waste, suggesting the need for local recycling and reuse facilities.
Multilingual gossip in Elizabethan London
Researchers uncovered evidence of state monitoring of migrant gossip in multiple languages, with churches aiming to have 'eyes everywhere'. The average person would hear multiple languages daily, and records kept by churches reveal the voices of regular people.
Study reveals shifting landscape of UN human rights discourse
A new study reveals a significant evolution in the UN's approach to human rights, with growing emphasis on disability and business-related rights. The research highlights the importance of corporate responsibility and suggests a move toward a more comprehensive understanding of human rights that encompasses economic and social rights.