Doha Round and Around: Understanding International Trade
Featuring:
Session One: Wednesday August 23rd
Fundamentals of International Trade
Dr. Russell Roberts
Professor of Economics
George Mason University
Session Two: Thursday August 24th
Do Trade Deficits Destroy American Jobs?
Dr. Russell Roberts
Professor of Economics
George Mason University
Session Three: Friday August 25th
Social Gains From Trade
Dr. Antony Davies
Assistant Professor of Economics
Duquesne University
Click Here to view Dr. Davie's powerpoint presentation.
In a world with ever expanding mobility of goods and services, the importance of understanding the fundamentals of international trade becomes essential. The failed Doha round provides a timely example of the complexity surrounding international trade. With so much at stake, it is imperative that policymakers understand the ideas and concepts behind trade and how trade affects the entire global economy.
Once the foundation for understanding trade has been laid, then one can begin to investigate its pros and cons. Proponents of free trade laud the opportunities given to emerging economies as well as the positive impact trade has on global prices of goods. Critics worry about labor standards and provide statistics that suggest trade deficits eliminate U.S. jobs.
The Mercatus Center at George Mason University will host a three-day course to provide policymakers with an introductory look at international trade and its global impact. Participants will be able to engage our scholars as they answer the following questions:
- How does trade create wealth? Who gains and who loses from international trade? Are poor nations and low-skilled workers getting their fair share?
- Do trade deficits threaten our standard of living? How do trade deficits affect different sectors of our economy?
- What are the social gains from trade? How does international trade benefit emerging economies from a social standpoint?