Trade policy is a perennial issue continually debated in the national forum by pundits and policy makers alike since it is so closely linked to the overall health of the economy. Now, as we head into 2009, some things look a lot different from a year ago. With changing economic conditions, fears of recession, a new legislative session, and a President-elect promising to transform the way America interacts with the world, it is clear that trade and globalization issues will continue to weigh heavily on the economic mindset. While most debate usually centers on the hot-topics in trade, such as Free-Trade Agreements passing through Congress or the decline of American industry, less attention is paid to the overall qualities and characteristics of the U.S. trading system.

To take a look at a few of the current realities in American trade policy, the Mercatus Center will host a lecture by Edward Gresser, the Director of the Project on Trade and Global Markets at the Progressive Policy Institute and author of Freedom From Want: American Liberalism and the Global Economy. Specifically, Mr. Gresser will speak on trade with the developing world, protectionism and the effects of various trade policies.

Join us as we take a closer look at:

• How are goods assembled and traded through the global supply train? How does this process relate to Free-Trade Agreements or a nation’s preferred trading partner status?
• Does the United States still employ trade barriers to protect U.S. markets? If so, on what types of goods from which countries?
• What is the role of trade in the United States and what are some options for the next President to create greater welfare at home and abroad?