Global climate summits result in ambitious commitments but often fail to achieve significant domestic progress. Effective environmental policies hinge on robust domestic legislation that fosters accountability and guides investment. In the water and energy sectors, the challenge is less about generating clean energy and is now shifting to sustainability of water sources, and the challenges of integrating intermitent power onto grids that are built to manage baseload power.
Category Archives: Globalization and International Trade
Canadian Strategies to Address US Tariff Uncertainty
Recent U.S. tariff moves have created alarm — but the practical effect is more nuanced than headlines suggest. The combined impact of the USMCA (United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement) and exemptions for energy means the vast majority of Canadian exports remain outside the bite of the newest U.S. duties. Independent reporting shows that roughly 90–95% of Canada’sContinueContinue reading “Canadian Strategies to Address US Tariff Uncertainty”
Chinese Brands: A Catalyst for Economic Growth
The Economist’s article discusses how Chinese brands are advancing beyond low-cost manufacturing, fostering innovation and competition globally. Protectionist measures in North America and Europe may inhibit domestic growth and innovation. Instead of exclusion, strategic engagement is suggested to enhance competitiveness and adapt to evolving trade dynamics, recognizing the need for collaboration and resilience.
Understanding How Non-Tariff Barriers Shape Global Trade
Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) significantly influence global trade flows, often presenting hidden costs and challenges beyond the visible tariffs. NTBs include financial restrictions like the control of clearing houses, international insurance limitations, and stringent domestic labeling requirements, which can impede foreign competition. Other NTBs involve bureaucratic delays, import quotas, and digital trade restrictions. Understanding these barriers is crucial for businesses, as they can disrupt trade and increase operational costs just as much as tariffs.
Trump and Mercantilism: Implications for International Business
Mercantilism, an economic theory prevalent from the 16th to 18th centuries, has seen a resurgence in the 21st century, particularly through U.S. trade policies. Trump’s “America First” strategy seeks to bolster domestic manufacturing and resource control, aligning with classical mercantilist principles. However, these approaches risk isolating the U.S. in a global economy increasingly shifting towards regional trade and diversity. Businesses must adapt by diversifying partnerships, leveraging trade agreements, and enhancing supply chain resilience to mitigate risks and seize new opportunities in a changing landscape.
Factors Influencing Intra-Regional Trade in the Caribbean
The Caribbean Development Bank’s recent panel discussion revealed that despite geographical proximity among CARICOM member states, intra-regional trade remains critically low at only 16%. Historical, regulatory, and socio-cultural factors hinder trade. A coordinated approach, including streamlined regulations and infrastructure investments, is essential to enhance trade connectivity and stimulate economic growth.
Welcome to the PGTS Blog!
PGTS was formally incorporated in 2008, but its roots run deep, tracing back to a sole proprietorship and an inspiration from 1983. An article I read sparked my journey, leading to a BAH in the history of Core-Periphery Trade Patterns and a Master’s in International Political Economy and Business from Carleton University’s Norman Patterson SchoolContinueContinue reading “Welcome to the PGTS Blog!”
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