Trade Alliances Research Articles

The Evolution of the BRICS Trade Alliance: Analysing Strategic Partnerships and Economic Interdependence in the Global South

The BRICS alliance—comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—has emerged as a vital platform for fostering economic interdependence and strategic partnerships in the Global South. This study employs a normative juridical approach to analyze the legal frameworks, trade mechanisms, and institutional structures underpinning the alliance. Findings reveal that initiatives such as the New Development Bank, intra-BRICS trade agreements, and currency swap arrangements have strengthened collaboration among member states. However, challenges such as trade imbalances, geopolitical tensions, and institutional inefficiencies persist. This paper highlights the potential of BRICS to reshape global economic governance by advocating for equitable trade practices and promoting sustainable development in the Global South.

Pakistan-Bangladesh Unresolved Issues During the Era of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajid

This research offers a thorough study of Pak-Bangladesh relations under the direction of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajid from her return to power in 2009 to the present. Understood within the larger framework of South Asian geopolitics, the study aims to clarify the evolution, dynamics, and subtleties of the bilateral relationship between Pakistan and Bangladesh. It looks at how interactions between the two countries have been shaped by historical legacies, home political environments, and regional as well as worldwide factors. The study is organized around themes of the historical background of Pak-Bangladesh relations, the effect of Sheikh Hasina's leadership on bilateral ties, the function of economic and trade alliances, and the influence of third-party countries and international organizations. Examined are important events, diplomatic interactions, and policy choices to find their underlying reasons and effects. Particularly under consideration are divisive topics including historical grievances, economic cooperation, security difficulties, and cultural diplomacy.

Paying for protection: bilateral trade with an alliance leader and defense spending of minor partners

Military spending was the main government expenditure until the 20th century, and it still represents a significant fraction of most governments’ budgets. We develop a theoretical model to understand how both military and trade alliances with military leaders can impact defense spending. By increasing the costs of military aggression by a non-ally, an alliance reduces the probability of war and allows minor partners reducing their military spending in exchange for a stronger trade relationship with an alliance leader and a higher trading surplus for the latter. We test our hypotheses with data on 138 countries for 1996–2020. Our results show that the importance of the trade relationship and the trade balance with the military alliance leader is a significant driver of military spending. The greater the weight of trade with the military leader and the higher its trade surplus, the lower is the defense spending of the minor partner.

An Analysis on Determinants of Cash and L/C Export: Findings from Türkiye’s Export

The payment methods used in international trade are of significant importance for the financial flow of the involved parties. When it comes to transferring goods and funds across borders to their new owners, the risks faced by the parties may seem daunting. The use of a letter of credit payment method by banks serves a protective role, enabling the parties to engage in trade more securely. While the expenses linked to this approach are sometimes viewed as challenging for the involved parties, it is considered a significant enabler, particularly in new trade alliances. In fact, exporters' choices are classified in countries' trade statistics based on payment methods. This study aims to uncover the determinants of exports from Türkiye between January 2013 and September 2023, utilizing both cash in advance and letter of credit payment methods. To accomplish this objective, exchange rates and specific inflation indicators, and their causal relationship with export transactions based on payment types was examined using the Toda-Yamamoto causality test. The research findings indicate that exchange rates, inflation, and cash payment variables cause letter of credit payments. Conversely, only the foreign producer price index was identified as a cause for cash-based exports. These findings illustrate that economic indicators, which may pose risks for Turkish exporters, are reasons for important decisions. In light of these findings, recommendations have been made for exporters and policymakers to proceed cautiously in the face of different economic scenarios.

Analysis of the Development Direction of China's Trade "Alliance": Taking China's economic ally policy against US trade sanctions against China as an example

In recent years, China's economic development has become increasingly powerful. In the process of developing its economy, China is concerned about the world and strives to build a community with a shared future for mankind, without seeking isolation or hegemony. However, China's concept of economic globalization is different from that of the United States, and its increasingly strong economic foundation poses a threat to the United States, leading to conflicts of interest. Therefore, the United States has launched a series of trade sanctions against China. This article provides an overview and analysis of the development direction of China's anti sanction trade alliance, based on several policies issued by the United States to form "economic allies" and impose trade sanctions on China.

Regulatory “Reliance” in Global Trade Governance

AbstractOne of the most significant recent trends in global trade governance has been the increasing use of regulatory “reliance” arrangements as a significant element of trade alliances. Against this backdrop, an important set of questions are raised about how existing institutions of global trade governance – especially the World Trade Organization and international regulatory standards organisations – should respond. To what extent, and how, should such institutions facilitate reliance arrangements? And what role can they usefully play in overseeing and guiding their use? This paper begins to answer these questions through a focused case study of regulatory reliance in the agrifood sector. Four challenges are identified regarding the implementation of such arrangements: the high costs of establishment and maintenance; the lack of agreed and reliable assessment methodologies; the potential for arbitrary discrimination between trade partners; and the difficulties of dealing with regulatory change over time. In light of these challenges, the paper assesses the work of existing international organisations in governing reliance arrangements in the agrifood sector. The paper concludes with a number of preliminary suggestions as to how this architecture of global governance might be supplemented or harnessed to address some of the challenges posed by reliance arrangements.

Analysis of the evolution characteristics of international ICT services trade based on complex network

Digital technology has brought profound changes in the services trade, particularly accelerating the growth of the international Information and Communications Technology (ICT) services trade. Understanding the evolving characteristics of the ICT services trade is pivotal for trade participants to formulate effective policies and enhance their competitive advantages. This study used the data from UN COMTRADE to construct ICT services trade networks spanning from 2004 to 2020. Using complex network analysis methods, it delved into several aspects of ICT services trade, including trade patterns, trade relationships, and participating countries. The findings revealed that central countries in ICT services trade are progressively dominating trade relationships. Moreover, many countries in the middle and lower tiers of the ICT services trade system tend to engage in bilateral trade with major economies or form trade alliances with a select few nations. Examining the evolution of trade participants, early adopter countries such as the United States, Ireland, and the United Kingdom have solidified stable competitive advantages in ICT services trade. Building upon these findings, the study puts forth several recommendations to enhance the competitiveness of the ICT services trade. This study not only enriches the existing knowledge base on ICT services trade networks but also provides valuable insights for shaping policies in this domain. The outcomes offer crucial guidance for interpreting cooperation and conflicts within the realm of ICT services trade.

ECONOMIC STATE AND PROSPECTS OF INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION OF GREAT BRITAIN AFTER BREXIT

Introduction. The onset of the migration crisis in Europe, triggered by the massive influx of refugee from the Middle East and Africa, escalated further due to the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. This complex scenario necessitates a reformulation of migration policies to align with evolving realities. The multifaceted nature of the crisis intertwines political, economic, and humanitarian dimensions, emphasizing the urgency for comprehensive policy adjustments. The aim of this article is twofold: first, to conduct an in-depth analysis of the United Kingdom’s economic landscape following Brexit; considering factors such as trade dynamics, investment patterns, and sectoral shifts. Second, it aims to evaluate the potential pathways for its international collaborations with diverse nations and regions across the globe, emphasizing the significance of forging new trade alliances and diplomatic partnerships in the evolving global context. Methods. Employing a comprehensive approach, this study utilizes analytical, synthetic, and comparative methods, drawing insights from normative regulations, academic research, and statistical data. By examining a wide array of economic indicators, trade patterns, and investment flows, the study provides a nuanced understanding of the post-Brexit economic challenges and opportunities. Results. The research underscores that the United Kingdom, post-Brexit, confronts substantial economic intricacies. On one hand, it can actively engage in renegotiating trade agreements with an array of partners and foster a dynamic regulatory environment. This dual approach holds the promise of cultivating enhanced economic autonomy and broadening avenues for growth. On the other hand, the relinquishment of privileges linked to EU membership might engender challenges in terms of adaptability. The need to diversify trade partnerships while managing potential disruptions remains a pivotal consideration. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the imperative of meticulous analysis and strategic economic planning to actualize effective economic sovereignty and facilitate sustainable advancement for the United Kingdom in the aftermath of Brexit. It calls for a balanced approach that harnesses new global opportunities while addressing domestic economic vulnerabilities. Practical implications. Policymakers in the United Kingdom can utilize the insights provided to shape effective economic strategies that navigate the challenges posed by Brexit. The analysis of potential pathways for international collaborations can guide the country’s diplomatic efforts and trade negotiations with other nations and regions. Businesses operating within the UK can gain valuable insights into the changing economic landscape, helping them adapt, innovate, and explore new markets. Investors and international partners can make informed decisions based on the assessed economic prospects, identifying areas of potential cooperation and growth. Originality and value. This article contributes to the existing body of knowledge by offering a comprehensive analysis of the economic landscape and international cooperation prospects of the United Kingdom post-Brexit. The integration of various research methods, normative regulations, and statistical data enhances the robustness of the study. The article’s originality lies in its dual focus on the economic state and the potential for international collaboration, providing a holistic view of the country’s post-Brexit prospects.

Analysis of the Caribbean Neurosurgery Workforce: Scope of Practice, Challenges, and Ways Forward

The neurosurgical workforce in the Caribbean and surrounding countries is largely unknown due to the diversity in cultural, linguistic, political, financial disparities, and colonial history between the countries. About 45 neurosurgeons serve 16 million people in the Caribbean Community and Common Market, a trade alliance including most Caribbean nations. We aimed to understand the current scope of neurosurgical workforce in this region while highlighting any system challenges and potential solutions for upscaling the workforce. We surveyed neurosurgeons within Caribbean countries and surrounding countries online using qualitative and quantitative methods via Qualtrics. Of the 38 countries within the Caribbean and surrounding countries, 26 (68%) were surveyed and of which 18 (69%) replied. In total, 172 regional neurosurgeons were identified, of which 61 (35%) replied-with a majority of general neurosurgeons (56%). Remarkably, the majority of countries failed to meet the threshold workforce density for safe health care-either expressed by full-time equivalent neurosurgeons or neurosurgical centers (see table). Most neurosurgical practices confirmed receiving or sending medical referrals. If so, most referrals took longer than 8 hours without significant difference regarding the destination. Lastly, challenges confronting neurosurgical advancement were found in the following: technology and equipment (40%), trained personnel (31%), hospital or medical center infrastructure (14%), neurosurgical education, and training (44%). To our knowledge, this is the first qualitative and quantitative study exploring the current status of the neurosurgical workforce within the Caribbean and surrounding countries. Identifying resources and challenges can contribute to improving regionalized neurosurgical care.

DIPLOMACY AND TRADE AGREEMENTS: A REVIEW OF NIGERIA'S DIPLOMATIC APPROACHES AND THEIR IMPLICATIONS FOR U.S. TRADE STRATEGY

This paper meticulously examines Nigeria’s diplomatic approaches and their consequential implications for U.S. trade strategy, aiming to elucidate the multifaceted dynamics inherent in international relations and trade agreements. The methodological framework employed encompasses an extensive exploration of pertinent literature, strict criteria for study inclusion, and in-depth techniques for data examination, providing a holistic perspective on the progression of trade pacts, alliances, and diplomatic interactions between Nigeria and the U.S. The results reveal a significant influence of diplomatic measures in shaping trade norms and legislations, reflecting mutual economic stakes and the consequences of diplomatic ties on trade resolutions. A comparative study with other countries was undertaken to analyze the efficacy of Nigeria’s diplomatic methods, revealing achievements and constraints in diplomatic maneuvers and approaches. The paper concludes that the consolidation of Nigeria-U.S. trade bonds is pivotal in fostering economic resilience and mutual development, necessitating adaptive strategies and integrative approaches in diplomacy and trade negotiations. Recommendations include the integration of environmental considerations in trade policies, developing adaptive trade strategies to navigate dynamic specialization in international trade, optimising financial resources, and constructing more resilient food systems. These proposals aim to fortify Nigeria-U.S. trade alliances, fostering a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable global trade environment.

Ex-Ante Evaluation of India’s Trade Alliance with Indo-Pacific Region: A General Equilibrium Analysis

The study attempts to analyse the economy-wide impact of Indo-Pacific alliance between India and rest of the 45 participating members using computable general equilibrium (CGE) model. We introduce four simulation scenarios in the general equilibrium model. The first scenario is the one in which India bilaterally liberalises trade in terms of both tariffs liberalisation alone and then removal of tariffs and reduction of non-tariff barriers together with all the countries of Indo-Pacific region. The second scenario is when India bilaterally liberalises trade with all the Asian countries of the Indo-Pacific region. The third scenario is when India bilaterally liberalises trade with all the countries of the Indo-Pacific region but excludes China from the region because of the current geopolitical reasons. The fourth scenario is the one when free trade is considered among all the countries in the Indo-Pacific region. The Indo-Pacific alliance seems to go beyond strategic alliance with the 46 Indo-Pacific participating countries, wherein the members gain due to potential movement of capital and welfare and economic gains because of tariff and non-tariff liberalisation among the member countries. The article suggests the road map for maximum welfare gains for India, keeping strategic and economic engagements with other member countries and sub-regions. JEL Code: F15

ПОДОЛАННЯ ГЛОБАЛЬНИХ ЕКОНОМІЧНИХ ВИКЛИКІВ: ІМПЕРАТИВ ДИВЕРСИФІКАЦІЇ ТА СТАЛОГО РОЗВИТКУ

The global economy has been severely disrupted by the COVID-19 epidemic, revealing weaknesses in supply systems, economic institutions, and trade networks. Following these difficulties, the need of diversification and sustainable development has been prominent as crucial approaches for promoting resilience and cultivating long-term prosperity. This article explores the importance of diversification and sustainable development in tackling and reducing global economic issues. It specifically examines important aspects such as natural resources, trade cooperation, neo-protectionism, Industry 4.0, and corporate sustainability. In light of the disruptions caused by the pandemic, there is a growing recognition of the necessity to diversify resource allocation and manufacturing processes. Nations and sectors that excessively depend on singular suppliers or markets have encountered significant risks, hence intensifying the imperative for diverse supply chains and trade alliances. Moreover, trade cooperation appears as a key for managing economic uncertainty, creating mutual interdependence, and improving resilience against protectionist pressures. Simultaneously, the emergence of neo-protectionism highlights the necessity for a well-rounded strategy that harmonizes domestic concerns with the demands of worldwide interconnectedness. Implementing Industry 4.0 technology provides a means to improve production, efficiency, and flexibility, therefore strengthening competitiveness and resilience in the presence of shocks. Moreover, the incorporation of corporate sustainability concepts into company operations arises as a crucial approach for promoting enduring sustainability and public welfare. Adopting sustainability practices not only reduces environmental harm and social disparities, but also strengthens corporate ability to withstand challenges by promoting creativity, gaining the trust of stakeholders, and improving brand image. By completely addressing these important factors, this article gives insights into the design and execution of sustainable economic policies capable of withstanding shocks and encouraging equitable growth in an ever-evolving global context. Policymakers, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders may create a more resilient, fair, and sustainable economic future by adopting a comprehensive strategy that combines diversification with sustainability. Keywords: Global challenges, diversification, digitalization, sustainable development, natural resources, world economy, economic security, neo-protectionism, COVID-19, Industry 4.0, logistics, "perfect storm"

Israel's Trade Alliances Strategy: Enjoying the Best of All Worlds

This article revisits Israel's trade and political alliance with the European Union – its major trade partner. The article examines the position calling to water down Israel-EU trade relations, considering EU's insistence on linking economic benefits with political advancement in the region, insights gained by the COVID-19 pandemic and substantial recent regional developments: Israel's trade diversification policy, the conclusion of Abraham Accords and the discovery of gas in the Eastern Mediterranean basin. Concluding that such a strategy may not serve the parties' interests best, the article explores ways to leverage these developments to further enhance EU-Israel partnership.

Export Linking Public Institutions of Higher Education (Business Schools), State Trade Agencies and Private Enterprise: A Model and Method for Scaling Global Trade

  In 2015, the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, Mr. Terry McAuliffe, accepted the advice of  companies that were located in Virginia who said  they could use state support to export their goods and services. From this discussion, a the Virginia International Trade Alliance (VITAL) was created to help those companies expand and succeed in the international marketplace (see - https://augustafreepress.com/governor-mcauliffe-announces-creation-of-virginia-international-trade-alliance/ ) This initiative is now  managed by Virginia’s Department of Commerce  (through its economic development agency, known as the Virginia Economic Development Partnership - VCDP).   Over the last 5 years, in partnership with Virginia private businesses, the state’s Chamber of Commerce, and Virginia’s public institutions of higher education, the program has created public-private partnerships that benefit – 1)  large, medium and small companies (with strategic access to global markets), 2) public universities (particularly participating business schools that are educating the next generation of savvy international business managers), and 3) Virginia itself (with more tax revenues realized from enhance international trade, more jobs related to such trade, and more awareness of the Virginia “brand” around the world, as traded goods and services from Virginia become better known and appreciated).  In short, meaningful and well thought out public-private partnerships have led  to  “win-win” realities for all involved .  Virginia Commonwealth University School of Business (VCU-SB) has participated in this program (along with 9 other public Virginia universities) since the inception of VITAL, and to-date the VCU-SB has undertaken over 25 graduate business student VITAL projects (see - https://business.vcu.edu/centers-institutes-and-labs/center-for-international-business-advancement/ ).  Each project has focused on analyzing and selecting international markets for private Virginia companies, and advising them with respect to marketing strategies in promising global markets.  This has all taken place,  while also educating VCU-SB’s participating graduate students on the nuances of global market analysis, and strategies and management practices related to global business success. This conceptual paper represents an overview of how VITAL projects are selected, researched and completed.  The paper provides series of figures to highlight  the theory, practice and necessary steps related to VITAL’s success.  The paper concludes with a call for other states and other countries to create their own form of VITAL (in general, labeled Vibrant International Trade Alliances)  and to extend the underlying partnerships that this model represents to like-minded entities around the world.  The overall objective is  to develop a global network of public/private linkages to scale global trade even further.&nbsp

Fair Trade Alliance and its Pertinence in the Indian Scenario

The account of Indian agriculture dates back to Indus Valley Civilization. As per Indian Agriculture and Allied Industries Industry Report 2020, Agriculture is the primary source of livelihood for 58 per cent of India’s population with significant contribution to Indian GDP, Gross Value Added (GVA) growth with 4 Per cent by agriculture, forestry, and fishing was estimated to be Rs 19.48 lakh crore (US$ 276.37 billion) in FY20(PE). The Indian food processing industry accounts for 32 per cent of the country’s total food market, one of the largest industries in India, and is ranked fifth in terms of production, consumption, export, and expected growth. The Indian agriculture sector is predominately unorganized and dominated by players from the unorganized sector with the exploitation of producers by market participants. The current paper tries to study the prospects of Fairtrade practice in Kerala by making a critical analysis of the problems and prospects of the Fair trade practices in Kerala. Fair trade in border sense tries to address the concerns of producers through structured arrangements designed to help producers in emerging countries attain sustainable and equitable trade relationships through an organised set of practices. Fair trade advocates for the Premium price, Better working, socio, and economic and environmental standards for producers. FTAK commenced in 2006, small farmers’ organization located in South India that grows coffee, cashew nuts, and tropical spices. Incorporated with objectives enabling farmers to tap global markets and enhance income through Fairtrade which tries to surpass the upcoming challenges of food security, the appropriation/utilization of rural land, the effects of pests and disease on their livelihoods, destruction of crops by wildlife, and the unwillingness of the younger generation to continue with agriculture. FTAK tries to preserve the historical legacy of Indian cash crops by creating sustainable livelihood for producers engaged in fair trade and help to calibrate the food security for a growing population.

Theoretical Understanding of the Specifics and Relevance of the RCEP Trade Agreement and Forging a New Path Based on the Digitalization of Trade and Investment in This Era. Will RCEP be the Road Map for the Future of World Trade?

The recently signed Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), considered of great significance, is not the first trade agreement signed by ASEAN member countries, or either any of their five (5) Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners, China, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, and South Korea. But what makes this newly signed trade agreement between its participating countries unique and different from all other trade agreements signed in the past? Of interest, RCEP is currently the second major trade agreement with pronounced emphasis on Asia. Respectively, RCEP is now perceived as the world’s largest trade alliance, and is envisioned to facilitate economic trade integration in the Asian region. Correspondingly, the participating member countries have all agreed to reduce or completely eliminate tariff and non-tariff barriers on imports and exports within the free trade zone. Deciphered to be a milestone, RCEP is intended to link about thirty (30%) percent of the world’s population and output, which is expected will generate meaningful benefits. Given the continued rapid development of digital technologies in this era, it is certainly unavoidable if companies want to move forward in the future. This, most likely is one reason, why RCEP members included a chapter in the trade agreement relating to e-commerce and trade. Without a doubt, the tremendous impact of technology on the way economic activities are conducted worldwide has been a catalyst, forcing companies to redirect their businesses, to lean more towards the inclusion of technology in every aspects of their daily operation.Thus, as part of the continued development of digital technologies, it means the fifteen (15) Asia-Pacific members of RCEP has the added responsibility to play a vital role in facilitating the smooth integration of digital technology in this trade agreement, which clearly will be beneficial for all. Therefore, on what basis can this be made possible? On a whole, it is anticipated that the prospect of trade digitalization will reduce the cost of engaging in international trade and create opportunities for businesses and consumers regionally and globally. Today, many activities are increasingly conducted by way of digital technology. For example: Nowadays, people rely greatly on computers and mobile phones with internet to conduct research and purchase goods and services, in effect transforming the way we acquire and spread information, communicate, and conduct business in this twenty first (21st) century. Nonetheless, in what way and how can RCEP facilitate the digitalization of trade and investment in goods and services to make it advantageous to the region? Accordingly, within this context, this paper intends to explore the specifics and relevance of RCEP, and whether it is destined to be the roadmap for the future of reshaping world trade. Equally, how can trade digitalization facilitate the expansion of trade and investment in the Asia-Pacific region in this digital era?

General equilibrium impacts on the U.S. economy of a disruption to Chinese cobalt supply

This study explores the short-run consequences of a disruption to Chinese cobalt supply, via an export restriction, under various electric vehicle deployment futures. Using 2017 as a benchmark, the cost then to the U.S. economy would have been small, and equivalent to less than 0.01% of U.S. personal consumption expenditures. If China were to supply all incremental new cobalt needed into 2030, the cost could be over 300 times larger than 2017. However, under baseline assumptions that account for the current pace of technology development and new cobalt production outside of China, model simulations indicate that over 90% of these costs could be avoided; surprisingly, it is possible for a Chinese supply disruption to be less costly to the U.S. in 2030 than 2017. A variety of scenarios are used to show the degree to which increased cobalt production, trade alliances, and ability to substitute away from cobalt in vehicles can help the U.S. reduce economic costs in the face of a Chinese supply disruption.

Critical Success Factors for Data Governance of Cross-border e-Trade Data Among ASEAN Member States

Global trading partners continue to adopt increasingly more multilateral and regional trade agreements amidst an overwhelmingly paperless and digital landscape. This can create useful trade alliances and increased efficiencies of digitization, but world trade is still plagued by the near absence of a uniform, harmonised customs and clearance protocol systems which trading partners accept and adhere to. Historically, customs forms and documentation requirements all differ from one nation to the next, and from one trading bloc to another. Un-uniformity in this area thwarts swift and cost-saving exchange of goods. The EU, North America and the northern Asian nations of Japan, China and South Korea have created various constructs to rectify digital trade dissonance. Southeast Asia famously began construction of the ASW (ASEAN Single Window), a single portal protocol intended to harmonise digital trading throughout the process from origin to destination, and its various successes and continuing challenges will be explored in this article. This research article focuses on and explores critical success factors for better governance of cross-border trade in the ASEAN region by conducting a systematic literature review of data governance related to electronic data exchanges by cross-border trading partners. This study uses a realistic approach while attempting to provide a clear view of the overarching picture of the trade world’s digital exchange challenges.

FOREIGN TRADE RELATIONS OF THE EUROPEAN UNION IN THE CONTEXT OF INCREASING GLOBAL UNCERTAINTY

The article analyzes the competitive positions in the system of modern international trade of the world's largest regional integration community – the European Union (EU), consisting of 28 member countries. The most important trends in the dynamics and geographical structure of the EU's foreign trade relations are considered against the background of increasing global turbulence, as well as in the run-up to the UK's withdrawal from this grouping. Based on actual and statistical data, the author substantiates the claim that the leading integration bloc managed to maintain its leadership in the world commodity exchange in the conditions of increasing global uncertainty due to its well-thought-out foreign trade policy, which includes a number of quite effective tools. According to the author, the experience gained by the EU is undoubtedly of interest for a more detailed study, since during the entire six-year period under review (2014-2019), there were very significant changes in the sphere of world trade, both at the global and regional levels. These include rising tensions caused by the spread of protectionist sentiments among leading actors, the formation of new types of trade alliances, and the use of sanctions against competitors under the guise of untenable rhetoric. However, the current year has brought more large-scale disasters associated with the emergence of a new virus infection of a planetary scale. Such trends have a negative impact on the dynamics of global trade, including foreign trade relations of the European Union.

A refinement of post-contact Choctaw ceramic chronology

ABSTRACT Over the course of the eighteenth century, the Choctaws of present-day east-central Mississippi and west Alabama experienced widespread changes in trade relations and alliances, subsistence practices, and sociopolitical arrangements as a result of intensifying European colonization of their homeland. Our ability to study these changes across the homeland requires accurate and detailed ceramic chronologies. Recent excavations of ten features at two eighteenth- and early nineteenth-century Choctaw house sites produced artifacts suitable for seriation and samples for Bayesian analysis of radiometric dates. The results are compared with Choctaw ceramics excavated from secure contexts at Fort Tombecbé to refine our baseline understanding of Choctaw ceramic chronology.