Trade Splaining

Episode 62: Unraveling the Threads of Global Trade and the Quirks of Expat Life Welcome to Episode 62 of TradeSplaining, where your hosts, Rob and Ardi, along with special guest Don Brasher, dive deep into the intricacies of international trade, business, and the expat experience. Get ready to be enlightened and entertained as we explore everything from supply chain challenges to the unique lifestyle of living abroad.   In This Episode: Jim Croce's Mysteries, Rolex and the Atomic Number of Samarium: We kick off with a light-hearted debate on Jim Croce’s roots and a fascinating fact about samarium. Yes, trade and expat life discussions can start from anywhere! Trade Data Insights with Don Brasher: Don Brasher, founder and president of Trade Data Monitor, joins us to shed light on trade statistics, their significance, and some pitfalls to watch out for. His expertise illuminates the often complex world of global merchandise trade, offering listeners an exclusive peek behind the statistical curtain. Global Events Impacting Trade: From a massive container ship striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge to the soaring prices of cocoa, we cover how recent events underscore the fragility and dynamism of global supply chains. Listen in as we dissect the implications of these events on businesses and consumers alike. Populism and Protectionism in Trade Policies: Explore how current trends in populism are influencing trade and domestic policies across the globe. We delve into the Biden administration's stance on significant steel industry events and the ongoing debate between the US and the EU over steel and aluminum disputes. The Expat Focus: Our conversation takes a lighter turn as we navigate the peculiarities of expat life, including the challenges and joys of adapting to new cultures and navigating the complexities of international living. Tasman AI – A Creative Twist on Globalization: Discover how Tasmania is offering a slow alternative to AI, bridging global creativity with local artists. It's globalization with a personal touch. Puppy Yoga in Geneva – A Local Glimpse: Ever heard of puppy yoga? Find out why it's causing a stir in Geneva and what it says about local regulations and the universal quest for relaxation and happiness. Why Listen to This Episode? Insights from Trade Experts: Gain valuable insights from Don Brasher and our hosts, who bring years of experience in international trade and economics. Diverse Topics: From serious trade discussions to quirky expat tales, this episode has something for everyone. Engagement: Engage with a community of listeners interested in the nuances of global trade, business strategies, and the expat lifestyle. Subscribe and Join Us! Don't miss out on future episodes – subscribe to TradeSplaining on your favorite podcast platform. Share your thoughts and join our community on Twitter (@tradesplaining) or Instagram (@trade.splaining). TradeSplaining is more than a podcast; it's your gateway to understanding the complex world of international trade and the unique adventures of expat life. Listen responsibly!

Episode 61: Unpacking MC13 while Switzerland, India and EFTA Make Trade Great Again Hosts: Rob and Ardian Episode Summary: Welcome to Tradesplaining, where we unravel the complex world of international trade, business, and expat life. In Episode 61, we delve into the aftermath of MC 13, explore the trade dynamics between Switzerland, India, and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), and discuss the EU's sustainability due diligence. Join us as we dissect these topics with wit, insights, and a dash of humor. Special guest Noelia Garcia Nebra, Head of Sustainability at ISO, shares her expertise on sustainability standards, trade, and more. Featured Topics: MC 13 Wrap-Up: An in-depth analysis of the outcomes and implications of the 13th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO). Switzerland-India-EFTA Trade Dynamics: Examining the new trade deals, their significance, and the role of sustainability and human rights in trade agreements. EU Sustainability Due Diligence: The challenges and controversies surrounding the EU's approach to corporate sustainability in the supply chain. Special Guest: Noelia Garcia Nebra discusses the role of sustainability standards in international trade and the impact of ISO's work on global trade practices. Key Highlights: Discover the intricate balance between national interests and collective goals in global trade negotiations. Uncover the strategic significance of the Switzerland-India-EFTA trade deal and its implications for global trade networks. Explore the EU's stance on sustainability due diligence and its effects on businesses and trade policies. Gain valuable insights from Noelia Garcia Nebra of ISO on how sustainability standards can foster a more equitable and efficient global trading system. Episode Extras: Listener Feedback: We dive into your comments and questions, providing our unique takes on your inquiries. News Roundup: A quick-fire segment covering the latest in trade, business, and expat life. Dad Jokes Galore: Because no episode is complete without our trademark humor. Subscribe and Follow: Catch future episodes and join the Tradesplaining community by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Don't forget to leave us a review and follow us on Twitter (@tradesplaining) and Instagram (@trade.splaining) for more updates and engaging content.

Welcome to Episode 60 of Trade Splaining. This episode, we're zooming into the challenges global policymakers face at MC13 in Abu Dhabi, touching on climate change, inflation, and the fragmentation affecting the global economic landscape.   Key Highlights: Global Policymaker's Dilemma: We dive into the pressing issues facing global policymakers, including climate change, inflation, and fragmentation. The discussions at MC13 in Abu Dhabi are crucial for setting the future direction of international trade and policy. Viagra in Geneva: A humorous yet insightful look into customs regulations and what constitutes "personal use" in Geneva. A quirky reminder of the unexpected intersections between trade regulations and personal life.   WTO Ministerial Conference (MC 13): We provide a rundown on what to expect from the upcoming #WTO Ministerial Conference, including insights from Inu Manak and Dmitry Grozoubinski. Their perspectives offer a hopeful outlook on trade negotiations, the importance of WTO reform and look at the potential outcomes of MC 13 and future direction of global trade policy.   Tune in to Trade Splaining Episode 60 on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review!

Episode 59: Red Sea Shipping, Sustainable Farming in the EU and More Evergrande with Simon Evenett Welcome to Episode 59 of Tradesplaining - This week, we cool our ambitions on a new global trade route through the Middle East, delve into the EU's farm-to-fork policy causing a stir in Geneva, and explore economic jenga in the Chinese real estate sector.   Key Highlights: Global Trade Insights: Simon Evenett from the University of St. Gallen and the Global Trade Alert joins us to dissect the complexities of trade measures, industrial policy, and introduces the kebab index as a novel economic tool. Local Flavors, Global Tastes: How the EU's farm-to-fork strategy impacts international trade dynamics and Geneva's unique work-from-home culture. Economic Tectonics: Unpacking the Chinese real estate market's instability and its global repercussions. Cultural Crossroads: From Arnold Schwarzenegger's customs saga to the lanthanide series and the 59th Street Bridge, we explore the intersections of culture, trade, and policy. In This Episode: Simon Evenett's Take: Why skepticism toward trade measures and industrial policy is warranted, and the potential of the kebab index. Economic Corridors on Ice: The challenges facing the ambitious India Middle East Europe economic corridor (IMEC) amidst regional instability. Organic Farmers' Protest: A closer look at the grassroots movement in France and its implications for global agriculture and trade policies. The Real Estate Domino: Analyzing the collapse of Evergrande and its impact on the global economy.   Listener Engagement: We value your feedback and invite you to share your thoughts on today's topics. Email us at tradesplaining@gmail.com or engage with us on Twitter (@tradesplaining) and Instagram (@tradesplaining).   Subscribe & Review: Don’t forget to subscribe to catch every episode and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us make sense of the complex world of international trade without the yawn factor. --- 01:07 Hate Mail  06:24 What Went Wrong This Week 18:40 Interview 34:35 Vibe Shift 37:30 This Week in Local News 39:14 Outro

Tradesplaining Episode 58: Fairtrade in an Age of Regulation and The Bow Tax In the 58th episode of the Tradesplaining podcast, hosts Rob and Ardian explore international trade, business, and expat life. They discuss U.S. chip restrictions affecting markets for graphics chip manufacturer NVIDIA, the relevance of Fairtrade in an era of regulation, and the impact of inflation on consumers. Special guest Fabian Waldemeyer of Fairtrade Max Havelaar shares insights on Fairtrade's role in the current era, how it ensures the fairness of their sourcing, and their partnerships with corporates. He speaks about Fairtrade's impact including price and income stability, strengthening of democratic structures, and capacity building in smallholder setups. Waldmeier believes that with new regulations, Fairtrade is as relevant as before if not more. The episode also features a segment on the 'vibe shift' touching on the emerging trend of the 'bow tax' in fashion and customer queues for the new Swatch-Blanca watch collaboration. Lastly, Switzerland's 'Animal of the Year', the Polecat, gets a special mention. 01:23 Hate Mail 07:18 What Went Wrong This Week 19:22 Interview 38:16 Vibe Shift 41:14 Local News Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Cristi Bagsic for helping in produce this....and every Trade Splaining episode.   #trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #CBAM #EVs #GreenTransition #Nearshoring #Fertilizer #IRA #chipsact  #carbonreduction #sustainability  #ai  #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva #Trade #Globalization #Podcast #Conversational #FairTrade #Switzerland #Business #Economics #Swatch #Sustainability #MaxHavelar #Inflation #Chips

In this year-end episode of Trade Splaining, hosts Rob and Ardian discuss significant events in international trade in 2023 and predict potential trends for 2024. They recap COP 28, identify the new challenges within trading systems such as supply chain crises, and talk about changes in local news and living situations due to inflation. The duo also addresses geopolitical risks, climate change impacts on global shipping canals, and the trade shifts between nations. Further, they touch on AI applications in trade, national security, and their first revenue breakthrough for Trade Splaining.   Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Cristi Bagsic for helping in produce this....and every Trade Splaining episode.   #trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #CBAM #EVs #GreenTransition #Nearshoring #Fertilizer #IRA #chipsact  #carbonreduction #sustainability  #ai  #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva

On Episode 56:   👉 Early returns from COP 28, land the adventures of a rare duck in geneva. 👉 Tesla goes at it with Swedish workers and what it could mean for the future of labor rights 👉 Global Minimum Corporate Tax facing doubts   Also joining Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore this episode is Valerie Picard, Head of Trade at the International Chamber of Commerce, to talk about whether business has become less engaged in trade policy debates, how they deal with an expanding trade agenda and if multilateral institutions are really fit for purpose   Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Cristi Bagsic for helping in produce this....and every Trade Splaining episode.   #trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #CBAM #EVs #GreenTransition #Nearshoring #Fertilizer #IRA #chipsact  #carbonreduction #sustainability  #ai  #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva

On Episode 55:   👉 Do high interest rates, inflation and geopolitical tensions and other factors driving an increased focus on energy security make the path to a low-carbon future look less straightforward? 👉 Looking at the Biden administrations failure to reach an agreement on the trade pillar of the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework Agreement (IPEF) and why it's decision to reduce it's ambition on digital trade may have played a major role 👉 More China De-risking as foreign firms are looking for better uses for their money with a slowing Chinese economy and rising geopolitical tensions 👉 Share-enting, Bedazzling, and more on the future of globalization!   Also joining Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore this episode is Ralph Ossa - Chief Economist at the World Trade Organization (WTO) - to talk about making the case for trade, what success looks like for the Chief Economist and thoughts on kebab..finally we find a non-vegetarian.   Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Cristi Bagsic for helping in produce this....and every Trade Splaining episode.   #trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #CBAM #EVs #GreenTransition #Nearshoring #Fertilizer #IRA #chipsact  #carbonreduction #sustainability  #ai  #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva

On Episode 54:   👉 Will workers be left out of the coming Green Transition? 👉 Does nearshoring mean that American manufacturing is back? 👉 How COVID-related supply shocks continue to affect commodity markets - this time fertilizer 👉 Blancpain, Rob and Lars's Trade Splaining spinoff, and more!   Also joining Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore this episode is Bernie Kuiten - Head of External Relations at the WTO - to talk about how the WTO manages to get its message across and engage with others during uncertain times. Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Cristina Bagsic for helping in produce this....and every Trade Splaining episode.   #trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #CBAM #EVs #GreenTransition #Nearshoring #Fertilizer #IRA #chipsact  #carbonreduction #sustainability  #ai  #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva

On Episode 53:   👉 Looking ahead to COP28 👉 The EU leaning in with the CBAM finally taking effect October 1 👉 Winners and Losers from a fragmenting trade enviornment 👉 Electric vehicles encapsulating many of the issues we see around trade, labor and the environment    Joining Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore this episode is Fitore Pula of the International Committee of the Red Cross - ICRC to talk about the link between trade and humanitarian assistance.  Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Cristina Bagsic in what may be her last episode with Trade Splaining.   #trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #CBAM #EVs #IRA #chipsact #brexit #carbonneutral #carbonreduction #sustainability  #ai  #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva

On Episode 52:   👉 Looking at how slumping demand in China may to be dragging down global trade 👉 Why the days of tax free Digital Trade may be slowly coming to an end 👉 Why auto industry sales may be the canary in the coal mine for global growth   Joining Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore this episode is Ann-Kathrin Zotz and Caroline Foerster of White Label Project, to talk about sustainable fashion and sustainable trade, whether upcoming EU regulation affects businesses likes theirs...and fashion advice for me and Rob. Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Valentina Saponara in what may be her last episode with Trade Splaining.       #trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #sustainablefashion #IRA #chipsact #brexit #carbonneutral #carbonreduction #sustainability  #ai  #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva

#TradeSplaining is back with a new episode!   Listen wherever you get you podcasts :http://ibit.ly/uJzpT   👉 Looking at how Climate Change, AI and War are Changing trade in ways that are increasingly visible 👉 How the Hollywood writers strike marks a new chapter when talking about technology and labor 👉 More animal stories in Switzerland: this time attack of the cows   Joining Ardian Mollabeciri and Rob Skidmore this episode is André Schneider, CEO of Geneva Airport, to talk about why we need a nuanced discussion around decarbonizing air travel, the impacts as well as talking about his unique and varied career so far.   Huge thanks as always to executive producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger and editor-in-chief Valentina Saponara.       #trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #IRA #chipsact #brexit #carbonneutral #carbonreduction #sustainability #ai  #climatechange #supplychain #tariffs #exportbans #listenresponsibly #wto #geneva #airport

On this special milestone episode, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined by Arancha Gonzalez, Dean of the Paris School of International Affairs at Sciences Po for former Foreign Minister of Spain, for an even more special in person interview to discuss what it will take to make multilateralism work, what a more realistic EU policy toward China would look like... and her favorite food in Geneva (HINT: not kebabs) They also look at how security interests continue to drive inefficient trade policy between China, the United States and the rest of the West, how more Western companies are siloing parts of their businesses in China as they try to lower risks from tensions between Washington and Beijing, the rise of Wageflation and try to unpack what it all means. TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is taking a break this episode from giving her thoughts on the end of globalization but will be back next episode. Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!   #trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #Microchips #Chips #IRA #CHIPSACT #ArtificialIntelligence #derisking #greedflation #wageflation #AI #africa #lithium #greentransition #ExportControls  #inflation #inflationreductionact #foodcrisis #tradewar #bigtech #tech #supplychain #unions #tariffs #exportbans #supplychains #tradesplaining #wto #podcast #covid #podcasting #podcast #globalization  #eu #chatgpt #business #sustainability

On this episode, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined by Chris Miller, Associate Professor of International History at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, Jeane Kirkpatrick Visiting Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and author of "Chip War: The Fight for the World's Most Critical Technology" to discuss the decades-long battle to control what has emerged as the world's most critical resource—microchip technology—with the United States and China increasingly in conflict, what it might mean for the future of trade and why chips really are once again the new oil (yes, really). They also look at how climate change might finally start to alter consumption and trade patterns as well as the perfect storm of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and demographics start to collide - and what it might mean for societies going forward. TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is taking a break this episode from giving her thoughts on the end of globalization but will be back next episode. Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!   #trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #Microchips #Chips #IRA #CHIPSACT #ArtificialIntelligence #AI #africa #lithium #greentransition #ExportControls  #inflation #inflationreductionact #foodcrisis #tradewar #bigtech #tech #supplychain #unions #tariffs #exportbans #supplychains #tradesplaining #wto #podcast #covid #podcasting #podcast #globalization  #eu #chatgpt #business #sustainability

On this episode, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined by Annette Ssemuwemba, Deputy Executive Director at the Enhanced Integrated Framework (EIF) at the World Trade Organization (WTO), to discuss the rationale behind promoting trade for least developed countries, and veggie kebabs. They also look at warnings about commercial real estate prices (there's a trade angle in there we promise), changing luxury trends and how climate change is affecting supply chains, TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is also back to give her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses. Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!   #trade #globalization #WTO #US #china #eu #IRA #creditsuisse #ubs #alibaba #antitrust #africa #lithium #greentransition #ExportControls  #inflation #inflationreductionact #foodcrisis #tradewar #bigtech #tech #supplychain #unions #bloomberg #tariffs #exportbans #supplychains #tradesplaining #wto #podcast #covid #podcasting #podcast #shipping #maersk #msc #globalization  #eu #chatgpt #business #humanrights #sustainability

On this episode, we're joined by Kent Wilska, Director of the Sustainable Trade Unit at the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, to discuss what a Sustainable Trade Unit does, why Finland has one...and why hot water is a key criteria for living in Scandinavia We also look at more warnings about the global economic outlook - this time from the IMF, China, Belt and Road and why Market Access might matter more when it comes to negotiating trade deals. TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is also back to give her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses. Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!

On this episode, we're joined by Iana Dreyer, Founder and Editor of Borderlex, to discuss the state of EU and US trade relations, where we go from here and also...why pizza > kebab We also touch base on the fallout from Credit Suisse collapse, the renewed focus on the African continent as the race for raw materials fueling the green transition hits another gear and what Ardi and Gwyneth Paltrow have in common (HINT:Skiing accidents and Bone Broth) TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is also back to give her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses. Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!

On this episode, we're joined once again by Professor Dorothée Baumann-Pauly, Director of the University of Geneva and  NYU Stern Center's for Business and Human Rights to discuss the state of play for business and human rights work post-Covid and what it meant for developing countries. We also touch base on the latest on India's continued emergence on the global economic and geo-political scene, the SVB Bank collapse as well as the Oscars recap, the latest on the tree situation in Geneva and more! TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is also back to give her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses. Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!

On this episode, we're joined once again by Jan Hoffmann, Chief - Trade Logistics Branch at UNCTAD, to discuss the state of play for the shipping industry post-Covid, what it's meant for developing countries and what trends to look out for as we get deeper into 2023? We also touch base on the latest is the gradual escalation of economic tensions between China and the United States, changing of the guard at the World Bank and more! TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is also back to give her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses. Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!

On this episode of Trade Splaining, hosts Ardian Mollabeciri and Robert Skidmore are joined by Richard Baldwin, author and Professor of International Economics at the Graduate Institute in Geneva, Switzerland joins Trade Splaining once again to discuss how what advances in AI like ChatGPT mean for his past predictions on the future of work and international trade, his takeaways from Davos and more. Ardian and Rob also touch base on the state of export controls and green subsidies as well as the state of play at the WTO...and snow-shoe-ing TS producer Michelle Olguin Fluckliger is also back to give her thoughts on the vibe shift happening right under Boomers and Gen X's noses. Also big thanks as usual to Valentina Saponara for helping produce this episode!