This episode examines a new independent review of UK trade policy conducted by the Centre for Inclusive Trade Policy, UK Trade Policy Observatory and Frontier Economics. Moving beyond description, the discussion focuses on how and why UK trade policy is evolving in a post-Brexit environment shaped by geopolitical fragmentation, economic security concerns, and competing domestic priorities.

Moderated by Javier Gutierrez, Counsellor, External Relations, WTO, the conversation brings together Michael Gasiorek, Director, UKTPO and CITP and Amar Breckenridge, Senior Associate, Frontier Economics, to unpack the methodology, findings, and implications of the review.

Key Takeaways

UK trade policy remains anchored in multilateral principles but is increasingly constrained by global geopolitical shifts.
Economic security is now a dominant policy driver, often in tension with growth and efficiency.
There is a clear gap between stated policy goals and implementation, particularly on sustainability and inclusiveness.
Greater transparency, stakeholder engagement, and policy evaluation are needed to improve effectiveness.
The current global environment challenges the assumptions underpinning traditional UK trade strategy.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Trade Policy Review

02:38 The Importance of Transparency in Trade Policy

05:05 UK's Independent Trade Policy Post-Brexit

08:06 Engaging Stakeholders in Trade Policy

10:24 Insights from the Citizens' Jury

13:09 Mismatch Between Government and Public Priorities

15:39 Economic Security vs. Growth

18:17 Sustainability and Inclusivity in Trade Policy

20:11 Key Findings of the Trade Policy Review

23:32 Economic Security and Digital Transformation

27:55 Sustainability and Inclusion Challenges

32:14 The Role of Middle Powers in Trade

34:25 Replicability of the Trade Policy Review Model

39:01 Final Thoughts on Trade Policy Challenges

Resources Mentioned

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The Big To-do List for UK Trade Policy