International Trade Research Articles

Evolutionary characteristics and structural dependence determinants of global lithium trade network: An industry chain perspective

As a globally emerging critical mineral, lithium is increasingly prominent in international trade, emphasizing the importance for energy transition and industrial structure upgrading to understand the evolution and formation of the global lithium trade networks (GLTN). From the perspective of industry chain, this paper uses complex network theory to construct GLTN for 2000–2021, investigates the determinants of network structure dependence through an exponential random graph model (ERGM), for analyzing the evolutionary characteristics and formation mechanisms of trade networks in both the holistic and local dimensions. The results show that, firstly, GLTN exhibits the overall characteristics of a "sparse upstream and tight midstream and downstream" network. The downstream exhibits a distinctive small-world network feature. China, the United States and Europe are the most active countries and regions in GLTN, covering the whole industry chains. Second, endogenous structure, node attributes and exogenous network effects all exert an influence on network structure. Regarding the impact of network structural dependence, lithium trade has transitivity effect, connectivity effect, and popularity effect. Third, the shocks of COVID-19 cut off the transitivity effect formed by indirect dependencies to the downstream industry chain first, resulting in a high network volatility. There is a strong heterogeneity in the network structural dependency for the industry chain.

The Dejudicialization of International Dispute Settlement: A Paradigm Shift in International Economic Law?

The objective of this article is to reflect on the rise and decline of judicialization in international trade and investment regimes and explore the future of international economic dispute settlement. It makes three key arguments. First, the severe disjuncture between anticipated benefits of international dispute settlement and the actual costs imposed on states explains the emerging trend of dejudicialization in international economic law. Second, at least to some extent, dejudicialization is likely to be a staple feature of international economic law in the new era of deglobalization, climate crisis, and great power rivalry. Third, judicialization of international dispute settlement will not demise but substantial transformation is necessary to meet contemporary challenges.

The impact of financial sanctions on economic policy uncertainty: Global evidence

Based on panel data from 20 countries from 1991 to 2020, this study uses the difference-in-differences method to empirically test the impact of financial sanctions on economic policy uncertainty in sanctioned countries. The study shows that financial sanctions have significantly increased the economic policy uncertainty of sanctioned countries. This impact is mainly achieved through mechanisms such as increasing the national risk of sanctioned countries, reducing their exchange rate stability, and restricting their international trade. The study also shows that the impact of financial sanctions on economic policy uncertainty is more significant in countries with a high degree of financial globalization and a heavy foreign debt burden. The effect of multilateral sanctions is also more significant than unilateral sanctions. This study provides useful inspiration for policy responses to financial sanctions.

Evolution of Nuvoton Microcontroller-based Education Board

Background:: The novel coronavirus pandemic has not only affected people's health. The pandemic has also affected their social life and work. For all the reasons mentioned, international trade has suffered and is still in the process of recovery. Objective:: Especially in the semiconductor industry, many manufacturers postponed their deliveries to future periods and this triggered the chip crisis. Many hightech industries, including the automotive industry, were deeply affected by the consequences of the crisis, with factories halting or slowing down production. Despite the shortage of chip stocks, Nuvoton has a large amount of Microcontroller Units (MCUs), but due to the shortage of resources, education and libraries, software developers have not been able to integrate their products in a limited time. Methods:: In this paper, the Nuvoton Education Board has presented 20 common examples for embedded software developers and beginners. Results:: The PCB is designed considering all modules connected to separate General Purpose Input Output (GPIO) pins to make multiple module examples without changing the peripherals and pin configuration of the MCU. Clock configuration has been simplified and unnecessary details have been meticulously removed to make the examples easily understandable. Nuvoton NuMaker M263KI V1.3 was added on the designed PCB. Conclusion: The PCB contains almost all the necessary electronics to learn embedded software and use Nuvoton MCUs in industrial projects. The board is supported with user interfaces and printed documentation. The codes are explained with command lines to teach users even small details. A patent application has been filed for the proposed education board.

Climate policy and China's external balances

To explore the impact of the China Carbon Emissions Trading Exchange (CCETE) on international trade and capital flow, we develop a two-country dynamic general equilibrium model with asymmetric climate policies. We use targets of decreasing carbon emissions intensity to simulate the strengthening of the CCETE policy. We find that the strengthening of climate policy improves China's trade balance and current account. We also find that output and carbon emissions of the rest of the world with a less stringent climate policy increase (known as carbon leakage) in the short run, but decrease (known as positive externalities of climate policy) in the long run. These findings suggest that China could benefit from more stringent climate policy due to the improvement of its external balances, and the world could also benefit due to the mitigation of climate change.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE COMPETITIVENESS OF UKRAINE'S ICT SECTOR: AN INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE

The purpose of the paper is to examine the international competitiveness of Ukraine's ICT sector through a comparative analysis with 30 countries, identify its strengths and weaknesses, and provide actionable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders and investors to improve Ukraine's position in the global ICT market. Methodology. The research employs the composite index methodology to assess the international competitiveness of Ukraine's information and communication technology (ICT) sector. The original ITSIC comprises 35 indicators; however, this has been expanded to 58 in order to provide a comprehensive view of the competitive advantages and position of the ICT sector in the global ICT market. Results. The article presents the findings of a comparative study of the ICT sector of Ukraine with global and regional leaders in the global ICT market. In order to identify the factors influencing the formation of competitive advantages, the following groups of factors were taken into account: the state of ICT infrastructure, the availability of qualified and competent IT professionals, the state and favourability of the political and business environment, the innovative potential of the ICT sector and its involvement in international trade and cooperation. The calculations have yielded the ratings for each group of indicators and the composite index as a whole, which identify the leaders in both global and regional dimensions. Specific consideration is given to the positioning of Ukraine's ICT sector within the context of the surveyed countries, with a focus on the identification of its competitive advantages and disadvantages within the global ICT market. Consequently, it has been determined that the international competitiveness of the domestic ICT sector between 2018 and 2022 was most significantly influenced by the extent of its involvement in international trade and collaboration, the availability and proficiency of the talent pool, and the quality of the ICT infrastructure. In conclusion, this study has identified the factors and trends that have the potential to impede Ukraine's ascension as a global leader in the ICT sector. Practical implications. The findings of the study may prove beneficial to a number of parties, including public authorities, ICT companies, investors and venture capitalists, educational and research institutions, international organisations and development agencies, IT entrepreneurs and the general public. The value and originality of the study can be found in its comprehensive, data-driven, and context-specific analysis, which provides actionable insights and strategic recommendations to enhance the international competitiveness of Ukraine's ICT sector.

Swine Industry in Canada: Biosecurity in Live Animal, Semen Transportation, and Embryo Transfer

The pork industry, a key player in the Canadian economy, significantly contributes to livestock production, international trade markets, and employment. The multi-faceted swine industry is comprised of nucleus, multiplier, and commercial herds. The recognition and application of exemplary internal and external biosecurity measures are paramount for maintaining sustainable swine production. Historically, live animal transport has been an important means of disseminating superior genetics between production herds and poses a considerable risk for disease transmission and biosecurity breach points. The industry has evolved over time to employ other methods, through the shipping of boar semen and the adoption of artificial insemination practices to acquire genetic resources with a lower risk of disease transmission. These effective changes have led to an improvement in herd health, production performance, and efficiency. In particular, the industry’s dedication to enhanced biosecurity is evident in the effort to streamline embryo collection and transfer procedures. Such advances reduce the potential need to transport live animals, thereby lowering the risk of introducing infectious agents. This review article explores the different forms of disseminating swine genetics, namely, live animal, semen transportation, and embryo transfer, examining potential breaches in biosecurity, and discussing mitigation strategies that reduce disease transmission to protect the health of animal stock.

An Economic Assessment of the EU–Japan Economic Partnership Agreement with Realistic Preference Utilization Rates

Abstract Recent years have seen an increased focus on the implementation of Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs). While the number of PTAs has risen remarkably since early 2000, data on the utilization of preferential tariffs under these agreements point out that some businesses have not gained access to all the benefits that PTAs can provide. When utilization rates are low, the impact of the agreement will likely differ from what was anticipated by ex-ante economic research. This paper conducts a dynamic Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) analysis of the expected impact of the EU–Japan Economic Partnership Agreement and compares a scenario that includes realistic preference utilization data with a standard scenario where all tariff liberalization is assumed to be fully utilized by businesses. The results show considerable differences between the two scenarios and illustrate the need to make the inclusion of credible utilization data standard practice in the modelling of international trade.

Home remedies: flexibilities to onshore pharmaceutical manufacturing under WTO rules

Abstract In the wake of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic, governments globally have intensified efforts to localize the production of pharmaceuticals, leveraging local content requirements and incentives to mitigate supply chain vulnerabilities. This shift has revealed tensions with World Trade Organization (WTO) regulations, notably highlighted in Turkey—Pharmaceutical Products (EU). This article explores policy-based flexibilities within the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) 1994, the Agreement on Trade-Related Investment Measures, and the Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (SCM) Agreement that may justify measures inconsistent with WTO norms under specific conditions. Analysing public health exceptions, national security imperatives, and government procurement policies, the paper elucidates how these flexibilities can be mobilized to support onshoring initiatives while adhering to international trade obligations. The findings suggest a nuanced approach to reconciling public health goals and economic strategies with global trade rules, providing a critical framework for policymakers navigating the complex interplay between national interests and international legal commitments.

The New Paradigm of Russia’s International Financial Relations

The objective of this study is to explore the fundamental features of the emerging international financial framework in Russia, to pinpoint potential risks and central issues in its development. The distinctive characteristics of Russian companies’ international trade activities are explored through a comparative and economic-statistical analysis. The identification of risks was done by creating checklists using logical and analytical methods to organize information about the research topic. The risk analysis was based on the Ishikawa method (“fish bone”). The framework of Russia’s international financial interactions from 1991 to 2014 was centred on the goal of swiftly integrating the country into the global monetary and financial framework, fully embracing the standards set by the global power, while also acknowledging the increasing reliance on the collective West, which could potentially compromise national interests. The New Paradigm envisions a balanced integration of diverse subsystems and individual components — nations and groups of nations — within a cohesive geographical context. This framework envisions the enhancement of mutually beneficial international collaboration with allied nations and the development of novel settlement and payment systems, which are based on the utilization of national currencies and/or cutting-edge digital instruments.

Is the decline of war a delusion? The long peace phenomenon and the modernization peace – the explanation that refutes or subsumes all others

ABSTRACT The wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, and the China challenge, revive the question of whether the world is becoming more peaceful. Realists’ claim that we told you so compares oranges with cabbage. Today’s world is divided into a “zone of peace”, encompassing all the developed countries, and a “zone of war”, comprising less developed countries. Within the former, interstate wars, civil wars, and the “security dilemma” itself have all disappeared. The Long Peace since 1945 is widely attributed to nuclear deterrence. However, the sharp decrease in war had begun during the 19th century. The effect of industrialization is the greatest lacuna in IR theory. The Malthusian Trap that plagued premodern societies has been broken. Wealth is no longer finite and a zero-sum game. This transformation has made democracies as well as nondemocracies fight much less, and has sharply increased international trade. It underlies both the democratic/liberal and capitalist/trade interdependence peace.

The Influence of Tariff and Non-Tariff Implementation on International Trade in the Textile Industry on Madura Island, East Java Province

This research explores the impact of tariff and non-tariff barriers on international trade within the textile industry in Madura Island, East Java Province. The study assumes that trade policies, both in the form of tariffs and non-tariff barriers, have significant effects on the competitiveness of the local textile industry in the global market. Data were collected through a quantitative survey of 100 textile industry players involved in international trade. A multiple linear regression method was employed to analyze the impact of independent variables (tariff and non-tariff barriers) on the dependent variables (exports and imports). The analysis results indicate that tariffs significantly reduce textile export volumes, while non-tariff barriers have a more significant impact on import volumes. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers regarding the importance of balancing tariff and non-tariff policies to enhance the competitiveness of the textile industry in the international market.

Visible masters and invisible students? Educational translation in the early modern Low Countries

ABSTRACT In the sixteenth-century Low Countries, a market developed for a specific type of translation, designed for educational purposes. From the second half of the century onward, in particular, many bilingual editions appeared, presenting two versions of the same texts parallel to each other. These works furnished authoritative models that students could use to verify their own translation exercises. Children whose native language was Dutch, both boys and girls, used the pedagogical tool of translation to learn the prestigious French language that was crucial for a career in international trade or public service, or Latin, required for an academic trajectory. In this context, translation not only offered an authoritative published end product, but also an educational activity. This article maps the visibility of the various actors involved in these educational translations: printers, schoolmasters, and students. By analysing published schoolbooks designed for translation exercises, as well as handwritten material by schoolmasters and their pupils, it explores the involvement of different actors of translation and questions to what extent the activities of student translators can be retraced.

Towards a Strategic Management Framework for Enhancing South Africa’s Seafarer Development Programme: Addressing Placement Challenges

The global shortage of qualified seafarers, particularly at the officer level, presents both a challenge and an opportunity for South Africa. Despite the country’s strategic location along critical international trade routes, South African seafarers face significant challenges in obtaining placement upon completion of their training. This article presents a systematic literature review on the placement challenges experienced by seafarers, supplemented with qualitative insights from South African stakeholders. The findings highlight the structural issues within South Africa’s seafarer development programme and propose a strategic management framework to improve the placement and competitiveness of South African seafarers in the global maritime industry.

Cross-border data flow in China: Shifting from restriction to relaxation?

This article examines China's latest development in the governance of cross-border data flow. Under the general framework of Cyber Security Law, Data Security Law, and Personal Data Protection Law, China established its own regime of cross-border data flow. In recent years, contrary to the general international perception that China imposes strict restrictions especially due to national security concerns, China has been de facto relaxing its regulations on cross-border data flow, especially for digital trade. This article suggests three underlying incentives. First, China is in an increasing need to gain economic growth through international trade and investment. Second, China intends to compete in technology development and take the lead in shaping international rules on data governance. Third, China is seeking to adhere to international standards, particularly those prescribed in international free trade agreements. This article further submits that this paradigm shift would have international implications. First, China's practices need to be examined under the domestic regulatory frameworks of international free trade agreements. Second, China's current legislative and judicial practices are multifaceted, taking into account various factors, including international business, national security, and data protection, which may contribute to the further development of international cross-border data flow rules.

Agricultural trade deficit and its impact on Nepalese economy: A comprehensive review

International trade is essential for a country’s economic development and modernization, driven by the dynamics of imports and exports. This review comprehensively examines Nepal’s trade deficit and its impact on the national economy. Nepal’s trade landscape is characterized by a significant imbalance, with imports consistently surpassing exports, as evidenced by an import-to-export ratio of 10.26 in the fiscal year 2022/23. This trade deficit has profound implications for national income, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, inflation rates, and foreign exchange reserves. This review identifies key factors contributing to the trade deficit, including geographical constraints, limited export diversification, heavy reliance on imports, infrastructural deficiencies, insufficient promotion and advertisement, political instability, low productivity, and dependency on remittances. This study underscores the critical need for export diversification as a strategy for mitigating trade deficits. Developing sectors with high potential such as tourism, information technology, hydropower, and organic farming are essential. Additionally, improving the quality and value addition of exported goods, expanding market access through proactive trade diplomacy, and supporting small and medium enterprises are highlighted as necessary measures. This study also emphasizes the importance of substantial investments in infrastructure, education, and skill development to enhance productivity and competitiveness. Promoting a national brand and leveraging digital marketing platforms can boost Nepal’s export profile. Sound monetary policies and a stable economic environment are crucial for addressing the adverse effects of exchange rate volatility and inflation. Political stability and a conducive business environment are vital to fostering long-term economic growth. The effective utilization of remittances through productive investments and reducing dependency on external aid are pivotal for achieving sustainable development. Through coordinated efforts across various sectors, Nepal can work towards reducing its trade deficit, enhancing economic stability, and achieving sustainable economic growth.

Income convergence clubs in the Eurozone: a tale beyond the core/periphery divide

Purpose This paper aims to examine income convergence among the Euro members from 1995 to 2021. Design/methodology/approach This study uses Phillips and Sul’s test (2007, 2009) extended by Lyncker and Thoennessen’s (2017) algorithm jointly with β and σ – convergence analysis and a traditional growth equation. Findings This analysis identifies three clubs of countries in terms of gross domestic product (GDP) per capita with notable disparities between and within them, which implies that the theory of optimal currency areas has not been fulfilled. Originality/value These results rule out the core/periphery divide as presented in the literature to date. Finally, by estimating an endogenous economic growth model, this study finds the primary factors underpinning the differences between the three stationary states: labor productivity, physical and human capital, investment and international trade.

An Evolutionary Game Analysis of China’s Power Battery Export Strategies Under Carbon Barriers

With the continuous evolution of international trade, the global market has been steadily expanding while also facing increasing challenges, particularly in relation to the introduction of environmental policies such as carbon barriers. Our research explores how China’s power battery manufacturers can adapt their export strategies to the EU’s carbon barrier policies. Additionally, we examine the roles of government regulations, research institutions, and manufacturers in either facilitating or hindering compliance with carbon reduction objectives. Using evolutionary game theory, we construct models involving government entities, manufacturers, and research institutions to systematically analyze market evolution, strategic interactions, and outcomes among these stakeholders. Our analysis focuses on understanding the competitive dynamics faced by exporting countries under stringent environmental policies and provides strategic insights to guide export strategies. Taking the EU’s carbon barrier policy as a case study, we explore Chinese battery manufacturers’ adaptive strategies and decision-making processes as they respond to shifting market demands and regulatory environments. The findings not only offer valuable insights into exporting countries but also provide policymakers with information on international trade and industrial policy design. Furthermore, we validate our model through numerical simulations and conduct sensitivity analyses on key parameters. The results underscore the importance of governmental adoption of punitive and incentive policies, revealing their substantial impact on stakeholder behavior. Additionally, the study highlights how participants’ pre-cooperation losses and post-cooperation gains influence participation rates and the speed at which stakeholder consensus is reached. By offering a novel approach with which to address carbon barrier challenges, this research contributes valuable perspectives on environmental regulations’ strategic and policy implications in global trade.

Illegal drugs and socio-economic changes in a new pivotal region: a court judgements perspective

Abstract This study adopts an integrative approach, combining quantitative and quantitative analysis based on Court judgements to uncover trends, dynamics and projections in the illegal drug trade. A quantitative analysis offers insight into drug specialisations. A Computer-Assisted Qualitative Document Analysis Software unveils socio-economic changes in a newly pivotal Italian region for international drug trade. The analysis highlights the intricate complexities of this underground activity and assesses the role of organised crime groups, shifts in criminal activities, and the emergence of complementary profitable crimes. The study offers a novel understanding of the multi-faceted nature of the drug trade, its impact on society, and its connection with other types of crimes, empowering policymakers to make evidence-based decisions on prevention and treatment policies.

Research on the impact of trade barriers on the binary marginal of enterprise exports: India's anti-dumping of China

ABSTRACT This paper derives a theoretical model of the impact of anti-dumping barriers on enterprise exports under the framework of heterogeneous firm trade theory and evaluates the trade-damaging effect of India's anti-dumping against China. The results show that the export volume and the number of export enterprises involved in anti-dumping cases show a downward trend after the anti-dumping is imposed. After controlling for heterogeneity, anti-dumping does not reduce the exports of incumbent enterprises. Anti-dumping mainly affects the exports of Chinese enterprises through the expansion margin, and has a small impact on the intensification margin. This research provides references for improving international trade development.