International Trade Policy

Program Overview

Through interactive lectures, webinars, and discussion forums, participants gain the knowledge and skills to effectively engage in policy formulation and shape international markets. The course is designed for government officials, private sector managers, and civil society campaigners seeking to enhance their influence in trade policy matters.

Program Outline

It targets government officials, private sector managers, and civil society campaigners whose work increasingly involves trade policy issues.

Objectives:

• Critically analyze the political and economic drivers behind the contemporary rules-based trading system, its evolution, and current challenges.
• Understand the role of trade policy as a government tool, including the available policy options, their potential, limitations, and agreed restrictions within international trade agreements.
• Assess the process of international trade negotiations, from identifying potential partners through conclusion, implementation, and future work programs.
• Develop the ability to constructively evaluate and critically engage in public policy debates surrounding topical trade-related issues.

Outline:

The course is structured into three modules, each covering different aspects of international trade policy:

Module 1: Origins, Principles and Politics of the Global Trading System for Goods

• This module delves into the history and evolution of the global trading system, from its origins to the current World Trade Organization (WTO).
• It examines the fundamental principles of the WTO's goods trade, such as tariffs, the Most Favored Nation principle, and National Treatment.
• Learners will gain a solid understanding of the international legal framework governing trade and its implications for global commerce.

Module 2: Rules Beyond Goods, and Trade Agreements

• This module explores how the international trading system has expanded beyond the movement of physical goods.
• It covers trade in services, government procurement, intellectual property, and various types of trade agreements, including bilateral, plurilateral, preferential, and multilateral agreements.
• Learners will also examine dispute settlement systems used to resolve disagreements arising from international trade pacts.

Module 3: Trade Negotiations and How to Influence Them

• This final module provides a step-by-step examination of trade negotiations, analyzing the various stages and objectives of negotiators.
• Learners will explore the process, required inputs, and strategies for stakeholders within government, private sector, or civil society to effectively influence the negotiation process.

Teaching:

The International Trade Policy course utilizes various interactive teaching methods to facilitate effective learning:

• Interactive lectures: Delivered by experienced faculty members, lectures provide foundational knowledge and insights on key topics.
• Exerts from negotiated texts, public policy inputs, and media coverage: Learners engage with real-world examples and perspectives to deepen their understanding of the subject.
• Webinars: Weekly webinars with King's lecturers and a global cohort of professionals offer opportunities for interactive discussions and knowledge exchange.
• Discussion forums and online readings: These platforms encourage active participation, peer-to-peer learning, and deeper exploration of specific topics.

Assessment:

• One written assignment: This assignment allows learners to demonstrate their comprehension and critical analysis of trade policy concepts.
• Participation in webinars and discussion forums: Active engagement in discussions and sharing insights contribute to the overall assessment.

Other:

• The course requires a 2:1 degree plus 3 years of relevant work experience.
Applicants without the required degree typically need 5+ years of relevant work experience.
• Upon successful completion, learners receive five Master's level academic credits.
• The program is offered fully online, with three 1-hour weekly webinars.
• It is designed for mid-career professionals seeking to enhance their understanding and influence in international trade policy matters.