Issue 05 September 2025
IN THE LOOP
From Geneva to Around the Globe: A Season of TradeExperettes Highlights
This edition captures a busy summer for TradeExperettes, with a strong presence at the WTO Public Forum and a rich line-up of events for our members. In Geneva, we launched our landmark Ten Wins on Trade annual report in an Ambassadors’ lounge conversation, hosted a session on digital trade’s transformative potential, and gathered members for a networking breakfast that kick-started the policy season.
Beyond the WTO Public Forum, our calendar has been equally vibrant: from Ten Quick Wins webinars on sustainability, digital governance, and WTO reform, to our CuraTEd Series on resilient supply chains, a timely Confidential on tariffs, and our seventh anniversary celebration. SkillsLab offered hands-on guidance for first timers at international conferences, while networking events in Brussels and Geneva kept our community connected. Together, these moments reflect the growing reach and impact of the TradeExperettes network, convening voices across regions and sectors to shape more inclusive, sustainable, and forward-looking trade.
Stay connected as we continue to unlock new opportunities for our members in the coming year. Together, let’s keep building a vibrant community dedicated to advancing #TradeAsAForceForGood.
Ready to join our growing network? Become a member today!
TradeExperettes at the WTO Public Forum
AMBASSADORS’ ROUNDTABLE
September 16, 2025
In the margins of the WTO Public Forum, TradeExperettes proudly launched its landmark annual report Ten Wins on Trade. The event was co-hosted by H.E. Ambassador Sofía Boza, H.E. Ambassador Petter Ølberg, and Hanna Norberg, President of the TradeExperettes.
The launch featured an informal Ambassadors’ lounge conversation on the report’s theme, highlighting the proven role of international trade agreements and reforms in shaping more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive global economies. Panelists and participants reflected on lessons and challenges from the past while sharing ideas for forward-looking, innovative trade policies to meet today’s global challenges.
NETWORKING BREAKFAST IN GENEVA
September 18, 2025
TradeExperettes hosted a networking breakfast bringing together members and partners of the network for an informal exchange of ideas. The breakfast created space for cross-regional and cross-sector conversations, where participants shared updates on ongoing work, explored new collaboration opportunities, and reflected on current trade policy challenges.
The event reinforced the value of the TradeExperettes community as a platform for dialogue and mutual support, and provided an energizing start to the busy trade policy season.
Digital Trade: Unleashing Growth and Potential Opportunities
September 18, 2025
TradeExperettes organised a WTO Public Forum session on digital trade’s transformative impact through e-commerce, AI-driven trade facilitation, and infrastructure in developing countries.
Speakers – Carol Anderson, Assistant General Counsel, Microsoft; Johannes Fritz, CEO, St. Gallen Endowments; and H.E. Muhammadou M.O. Kah, Ambassador of Ghana – together with moderator Euijin Jung, Consultant at World Bank, discussed how SMEs gain from e-commerce, how AI streamlines customs, and how investment and regulation shape digital inclusion.
The session stressed the need for coherent policies and partnerships to ensure equitable participation in the digital economy and support sustainable development.
Beyond the Forum: Other events
TEN QUICK WINS WEBINAR: EPISODE 3
May 15, 2025
TradeExperettes held the third webinar in its flagship Ten Quick Wins series. The session, “Advancing Sustainable Development through Effective Policy,” explored inclusive and equitable pathways to integrate sustainability into global trade. Discussions focused on work in developing and least developed economies, cross-sector cooperation, green investment and technology transfer, and fair labour practices.
We were honoured to host Katrin Kuhlmann (Professor, faculty Director, and Co-Founder of the Centre on Inclusive Trade and Development at Georgetown University Law Centre), Kellie Meiman (Senior Counsellor at McLarty Associates), and Cláudia Azevedo (Senior Policy Analyst at Europe Jacques Delors), with moderation by Emilie Kerstens (Senior Associate at Global Counsel). Their insights provided concrete strategies for shaping trade policies that support sustainable and equitable participation in the global economy.
CURATED SERIES FINALE: TECHNOLOGY FOR RESILIENT SUPPLY CHAINS
May 22, 2025
TradeExperettes concluded its CuraTEd Series with the third webinar, “Leveraging Technology for Resilient Supply Chains.” The session examined technology’s transformative role in supply chain management, from disruption mitigation and compliance to transparency, efficiency, and SME empowerment.
Distinguished experts Jeff Weiss (Partner at Steptoe), Aba Schubert (CEO at Dorae), and Emmanuelle Ganne (Chief of Digital Trade and Frontier Technologies Hub at the WTO) shared insights, with moderation by Hanna Norberg, President of TradeExperettes. Their discussion underscored how trade tech can reshape operations, strengthen compliance, and support more inclusive participation in global supply chains. The event was organised with the generous support of PepsiCo and Global Affairs Canada.
TEN QUICK WINS WEBINAR: EPISODE 4
May 29, 2025
TradeExperettes hosted a Ten Quick Wins webinar on “How Effective Digital Governance Supports Inclusion.” The session explored how to build inclusive, open, safe, and competitive digital markets, focusing on flexible regulatory frameworks, the role of international institutions, and new rules to enhance security, trust, and economic goals.
Speakers included Hua Wang, Executive Director of the Global Innovation Forum; Hannah Anderson, Digital Finance Policy Advisor at the Institute of International Finance; and Rutendo Tavengerwei, International and Digital Trade Policy Advisor and DPhil Candidate at the University of Oxford. The discussion was moderated by Barbara Kotschwar, Senior Trade Economist at S&P Global and Professor at Georgetown University for the Landegger Program in International Business Diplomacy.
DIGITAL TRADE DAY IN GENEVA
June 10, 2025
TradeExperettes hosted Digital Trade Day at the WTO, bringing together experts from business, policy, and academia to explore the future of digital trade. Discussions highlighted how digital trade can foster more inclusive international markets and support growth in developing economies, while also confronting the regulatory and governance challenges it poses.
The programme featured two panels: “The Promise of Digital Trade” examined opportunities for developing economies, with perspectives from business leaders, researchers, and policymakers. “The Governance of Digital Trade” addressed regulatory gaps and SME challenges in navigating digital trade rules, alongside insights on future policy needs.
The event concluded with closing remarks by Johanna Hill, Deputy Director-General of the WTO, who underlined the importance of shaping digital trade frameworks that are both inclusive and forward-looking.
CONFIDENTIAL "TARIFFS AND TOUGH CHOICES: RESPONSES TO TRUMP 2.0"
June 26, 2025
TradeExperettes hosted a Confidential session on “Tariffs and Tough Choices: Responses to Trump 2.0.” The discussion examined how governments and businesses are adapting to a new era of aggressive tariff policies.
Panelists Luisa Santos, Deputy Director General at BusinessEurope; Ana Elena Sancho, Associate Director at Global Trade Alert (SGEPT); and Jayant Menon, Senior Fellow at the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute, shared perspectives on the implications of tariff shifts for global trade and policy responses. The session was moderated by Fiama Angeles, Senior Trade Policy Analyst and TradeExperettes Member, and included a lively Q&A with participants.
TEN QUICK WINS WEBINAR: EPISODE 5
July 10, 2025
TradeExperettes hosted the fifth webinar in its Ten Quick Wins series: “Strengthening the Multilateral Trading System.” Timed with the WTO’s 30th anniversary, the session explored how to promote an effective and stable rules-based system in turbulent times. Discussions focused on restoring a fully functioning dispute settlement system, adapting WTO rules to new challenges such as digital trade and sustainable supply chains, and advancing an inclusive global trade agenda.
The panel featured Valerie Picard, Head of Trade at the International Chamber of Commerce; Keith M. Rockwell, Senior Research Fellow at the Hinrich Foundation; and Xinquan Tu, Professor and Dean at the University of International Business and Economics, with moderation by Iana Dreyer, Editor and Founder of Borderlex.
TE ANNIVERSARY PARTY
August 08, 2025
TradeExperettes marked its seventh anniversary with a festive online celebration. Members and supporters from across the globe gathered online to reflect on seven years of building community, curiosity, and courage in trade.
The event featured joyful reflections, breakout rooms, trade trivia, and plenty of surprises – all in true TradeExperettes spirit. Members embraced the festive dress code, bringing crowns, glam, and good vibes to celebrate the collective impact of seven years of empowering trade for good.
Become a member today!
TE SKILLSLAB GUIDANCE SESSION - FIRST TIMER AT AN INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE?
August 13, 2025
TradeExperettes held a SkillsLab session titled “Prepping for My First Time at the WTO Public Forum: What I Wish I Knew.” Designed for members attending their first international conference, the session offered practical tips and confidence-building strategies for navigating both speaking and participation roles.
Led by Sylvia Chen, TE SkillsLab leader, the discussion featured Princess Puskas, Publications Manager at the Bank of Botswana and former TE YATES Program recipient, and Andrea Bulnes, Trade Policy Specialist at the International Trade Centre and core member of the SkillsLab team. Both shared personal insights and guidance drawn from their professional and conference experience.
The interactive format concluded with a Q&A, giving participants the chance to raise scenarios, ask questions in a safe off-the-record space, and gain practical advice for making the most of the WTO Public Forum.
BRUSSELS NETWORKING DRINKS
September 4, 2025
TradeExperettes members gathered in Brussels for an informal evening of networking as the city returned from summer break. The relaxed setting offered a chance to reconnect, exchange ideas, and strengthen community ties. Hanna Norberg, Founder and President of TradeExperettes, joined the gathering, making it a warm and lively start to the new season.
THE LATEST SCOOP
Top content to revisit
TEN TRADE WINS: 2025 EDITION
While headlines debate what’s next for trade, the real story lies in what it has already delivered. TradeExperettes’ Ten Trade Wins showcases concrete examples of how open trade policies are improving lives, solving global challenges, and fueling inclusive growth across the world.
No. 1. The Box That Grew Trade | By Hanna C. Norberg and Arushi Vaishnav
No. 2. Trade Drives Sustainable Energy | By Elizabeth Henning Ravesteijn
No. 3. Going Paperless Has Reshaped Trade for the Better | By Silvia Sorescu
No. 4. Global Trade Makes Food Safe and Affordable | By Darci Vetter
No. 5. WTO Committees Keep Agricultural Trade Moving | By Jill O’Donnell
No. 6. IPRs Have Increased Pharmaceutical Access | By Emily Michiko Morris
No. 7. Trade Agreements Have Helped Prohibit Forced Labor | By Desiree LeClercq (Ganz)
No. 8. China’s Trade Reforms Lifted Hundreds of Millions Out of Poverty | By Yan Zhang and Huan Zhu
No. 9. The Success of Service Sector Reform in Morocco | By Rebecca Ygberg Amayra and Deborah Winkler
No. 10. The EU-Vietnam Trade Agreement Brings Together People and Businesses | By Cecilia Malmström
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The year 2024 marks a global election cycle with over 80 countries, representing more than half of the world’s population casting their votes. In these uncertain times, the world finds itself confronted by a state of “polycrisis”—a complex web of interconnected global challenges that transcends borders. Geopolitics and international trade have a critical role to play in driving solutions to these crises.
As many countries continue to navigate the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world contends with other pressing issues such as the increasing urgency of tackling climate change and addressing the fragmentation of traditional geopolitical alliances. As nations confront various stressors, including ongoing conflicts in several regions around the world, these interconnected issues have heightened uncertainties and undermined the previously robust support for open trade.
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BY JAVERIA MARYAM – In today’s integrated global economy, international trade is often seen as a tool to boost female workforce participation. However, achieving sustainable and inclusive growth requires gender-sensitive trade policies to ensure equitable benefits for all.
Gender-differentiated roles and gender-biased business practices exist in global markets, causing women to be more disadvantaged.
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BY ŞEYMANUR YÖNT – On January 24, 2024, the EU announced its strategy on outbound investments with the objective of establishing a comprehensive outbound screening policy. Although the policy outcome will not be known until 2025 at the earliest, the EU is likely to introduce an initiative resembling the US outbound investment screening regime. But the EU is not the US. Introducing such a regime will be a challenge for the EU.
TRADE [S]HEROES
Showcasing the work of a leading woman in trade policy
This month we celebrate Mari Elka Pangestu, TradeExperettes Advisor and Indonesian economist. She currently serves as Special Presidential Envoy for International Trade and Multilateral Cooperation to President Subianto, Deputy Chair of the National Economic Council (DEN), and as a Non-Resident Fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics (PIIE).
Dr. Pangestu has been on our Advisorettes Board since spring 2023, bringing decades of experience from senior roles in government, international organizations, and academia. She previously served as World Bank Managing Director of Development Policy and Partnerships (2020–2023), and as Indonesia’s Minister of Trade (2004–2011) and Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy (2011–2014).
Fun fact: she loves ice cream!
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
TRADEEXPERETTES MONTHLY MEET AND GREET
Join our members-only Meet & Greet sessions!
Every first Tuesday of the month, connect in an informal, welcoming space designed to help you get to know fellow members and build meaningful professional relationships.
📅 Upcoming sessions:
October 7, 2025 | 8 AM EDT; 2 PM CET; 2 AM NZDT (Oct 8)
November 4, 2025 | 2 PM EDT; 8 PM CET; 8 AM NZDT (Nov 5)
December 3, 2025 | 8 AM EDT; 2 PM CET; 2 AM NZDT (Dec 3)
Forge new connections and expand your global trade circle in a relaxed setting. Watch your inbox for updates and be sure to RSVP for the next Meet & Greet!
WRITERETTES AND RESEARCH CAFE
Need focused time for writing or research?
Join TradeExperettes' members-only virtual sessions!
Writerettes: Hosted by Michelle Egan, every Friday 9:00-12:00 EST (15:00-18:00 CET). Draft, edit, and ideate in distraction-free 45-minute sprints with peer accountability.
Research Café: Hosted by Mitali Pradhan, first Friday of each month 9:00-9:45 EST (15:00-15:45 CET). Brainstorm proposals, data sources, and methods with global trade experts in a no-pressure environment.
These sessions will provide focused time for drafting, editing, and ideation. It’s also a great opportunity to exchange ideas, receive feedback, and collaborate with fellow TE members passionate about international trade policy research. We look forward to seeing you there!
Find the link to the sessions here.
TradeExperettes thrives through volunteer dedication and the generous support of individuals and organizations committed to advancing women trade experts. Your contributions directly sustain our diverse programs and help extend memberships to professionals from developing countries, LDCs, and students requiring financial assistance.
Click here to support us.
Edited by Arushi Vaishnav. Newsletter layout designed by Ricardo Ashimi.