IN THE LOOP
Recent events
Welcome to the December Edition of Our Newsletter!
As 2024 comes to a close, we reflect on a remarkable year of growth, collaboration, and impactful events at TradeExperettes. From empowering professional development sessions to high-level engagements with global institutions, we have continued to drive conversations that shape the future of trade.
This year, we celebrated milestones like the launch of the CuraTEd Series on global supply chains, exclusive events at the WTO Public Forum, and dynamic networking gatherings in Brussels, London, and Geneva. Each initiative has highlighted the incredible power of collaboration, fostering connections among trade professionals worldwide.
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!
OPEN-SOURCE DATABASES, PART II: GLOBAL TRADE HELPDESK AND TRADE4MSMEs PLATFORMS
May 22, 2024
Ania Jankowska-Eriksson and Kathryn Lundquist led a guidance session on the Global Trade Helpdesk and Trade4MSMEs platforms. Hosted by Sylvia Chen, this engaging workshop provided members with comprehensive insights into essential digital tools and resources in trade and research.
The interactive 60-minute session featured a 40-minute expert presentation on the trade platforms, followed by a 20-minute off-the-record Q&A segment. Participants had the opportunity to learn about critical digital resources that support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in international trade, including market intelligence tools and strategic trade information networks.
E-MEET AND GREET!
Save the date: first Tuesday of every month.
June 04, 2024
Our monthly Meet and Greet sessions provide a vibrant and welcoming space for members to connect and expand their networks. These casual gatherings create the perfect opportunity to meet fellow professionals and engage in meaningful conversations.
Join us in 2025! Keep an eye on your inbox and register early to secure your spot.
WTO PUBLIC FORUM: MASTERING PANEL SUBMISSIONS
June 05, 2024
Ahead of the WTO Public Forum, WTO External Relations Counsellor Javier Gutiérrez shared expert guidance on crafting proposal submissions. Hosted by Victoria Bruno, this focused session delivered valuable insights and strategies for success.
Drawing on Javier Gutiérrez's extensive experience in trade diplomacy and strategic communications, participants strengthened their professional confidence and public speaking skills. The workshop created a collaborative environment for learning and growth.
Ready to advance your career? Join our next SkillsLab session!
WTO PUBLIC FORUM: MASTERING PANEL SUBMISSIONS (EXCLUSIVE Q&A)
June 12, 2024
TradeExperettes hosted a follow-up Q&A with WTO External Relations Counsellor Javier Gutiérrez, complementing our "WTO Public Forum: Mastering Panel Submissions" workshop. The unique session enabled members to receive personalized guidance on panel submissions.
In an off-the-record setting, members gained direct feedback on individual scenarios. The event exemplified TradeExperettes' commitment to delivering practical learning opportunities for our community.
ENHANCING YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE: STRATEGIES FOR TRADE PROFESSIONALS
July 03, 2024
Trade negotiations expert and former diplomat Dmitry Grozoubinski led a SkillsLab on maximizing professional visibility through social media, hosted by Victoria Bruno.
Participants explored the risks and opportunities of LinkedIn and X platforms, combining a focused presentation with interactive Q&A. Members gained practical strategies to enhance their digital presence in the trade community.
BRUSSELS AFTERWORK
July 17, 2024
TradeExperettes welcomed Brussels-based members for an evening of networking at Café Luxembourg. This informal gathering provided a great opportunity for members to connect and network in a relaxed setting.
SIX YEARS OF TRADEEXPERETTES!
July 31, 2024
TradeExperettes marked its sixth anniversary by gathering members and supporters to celebrate our community's impact on trade. The evening sparkled with positive energy and camaraderie, highlighting trade as a force for good. Thank you to everyone who shared in this milestone!
TE STORIES: A CHAT WITH WTO’S DDG JOHANNA HILL
August 27, 2024
In an exclusive members-only Confidential event featuring Johanna Hill, WTO's Deputy Director-General, members gained insights into the key topics she deals with, her work priorities, and what a typical day looks like for a Deputy Director-General at the WTO. This was a unique opportunity to gain insights into her role and the challenges she faces in shaping global trade policies!
AMBASSADOR’S ROUNDTABLE AT THE WTO PUBLIC FORUM
September 09, 2024
The TradeExperettes Ten "Quick Wins" report was launched at a high-level WTO Public Forum event.
Ambassador Simon Manley, Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom to the WTO, Ambassador Pimchanok Vonkorpon Pitfield, Permanent Representative of Thailand to the WTO and WIPO, and Ambassador Clare Kelly, Permanent Representative of New Zealand to the WTO, together with Hanna Norberg, President of the TradeExperettes, hosted an informal Ambassadors’ lounge conversation on the report’s theme: Reglobalisation and Resilience.
WTO PUBLIC FORUM 2024: TRADEEXPERETTES PANEL “TEN QUICK WINS FOR RE-GLOBALIZATION & GREEN TRADE RESILIENCE”
September 10, 2024
Moderated by Dr. Cecilia Malmström, the TradeExperettes' panel at this year's WTO Public Forum, "Ten Quick Wins for Re-globalization and Resilience in Trade," brought energy and fresh perspectives. The discussions featured a line-up of distinguished panelists – Ambassador James Baxter, Mr. Hamid Mamdouh, and Dr. Jan-Yves Remy – crackling with engaging debates and actionable ideas for shaping effective, inclusive green trade policies. The panelists dove deep into how trade policies can drive a net-zero future, champion sustainable and secured production of critical minerals through global collaboration, and empower developing nations with the knowledge needed for a successful green transition. Their passion and expertise inspired the audience to rethink how trade policies can pivot towards re-globalization and deliver "Better Trade for a Better World."
COFFEE MEETUP AT THE WTO PUBLIC FORUM
September 11, 2024
TradeExperettes hosted a coffee meetup for members attending the WTO Public Forum in Geneva. This informal gathering provided an excellent opportunity for members to connect, share insights, and discuss key trade topics over a warm cup of coffee.
QUEENS TACOS EVENING
September 11, 2024
TradeExperettes celebrated its QUEENS—our dedicated volunteers—at a taco evening in Geneva during the WTO Public Forum. The gathering brought warmth and laughter as volunteers shared stories and celebrated their work in highlighting women trade experts.
Thank you to our QUEENS for strengthening our community!
TRADEEXPERETTES COCKTAILS IN GENEVA
September 12, 2024
TradeExperettes and the Geneva Trade Platform co-hosted a cocktail reception at Restaurant Amarante, bringing together Geneva’s trade community. This invitation-only event fostered new connections while advancing our shared commitment to empowering women in global trade.
BRUSSELS AFTERWORK
October 03, 2024
TradeExperettes hosted a members-only after-work gathering in Brussels, offering professionals a strategic networking opportunity to forge valuable connections, exchange industry insights, and expand their trade network in an intimate, professional setting at Grand Central.
HOW TO SPEAK WITH JOURNALISTS?
October 30, 2024
TradeExperettes hosted a SkillsLab guidance session on "How to Speak with Journalists" featuring Iana Dreyer, founder and editor of Borderlex. Hosted by Sylvia Chen, the event provided trade professionals with strategies for engaging with media, including a master class on interview preparation and an off-the-record Q&A session. Dreyer, with over fifteen years of international trade policy expertise, shared valuable insights on effective communication with journalists.
PHD PATHWAYS: NAVIGATING APPLICATIONS, TIMELINES AND EXPECTATIONS
November 19, 2024
The special TE Mentorettes event was aimed at all TE members that are considering applying for a PhD but unsure where to start and are wondering if a PhD is the right choice for them and their career trajectory. Maria Garcia (Associate Professor in International Relations, University of Bath), Marta Soprana (Digital IR Project Associate, LSE IDEAS) and Mitali Pradhan, Assistant Professor of Economics (Farmingdale State College) shared their views and insights on the application process, timelines, and what to expect from the PhD journey.
CURATED SERIES: GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAINS: UNDERSTANDING THE COMPLEXITY OF MODERN SUPPLY CHAINS
November 20, 2024
TradeExperettes kicked off their CuraTEd Series with an event featuring distinguished experts Phil Levy, Lead Trade Economist at the World Bank, and Shiumei Lin, Vice-President of UPS APAC, moderated by Penny Naas, Lead of GMF Allied Competitiveness at the German Marshall Fund and TradeExperettes adviser. The panel explored the intricate challenges of contemporary supply chains, examining geopolitical shifts, technological advancements, and the delicate balance between resilience and efficiency in global trade networks.
POLICY WRITING: CLEAR, CONCISE, COMPELLING
November 20, 2024
TradeExperettes hosted a SkillsLab guidance session on "Policy Writing: Clear, Concise, Compelling" led by Marta Paczos, Senior Economic Adviser at the UK Department for Business and Trade, and Euijin Jung, Trade Policy Analyst and Consultant at the World Bank. These experienced professionals shared practical strategies for crafting effective policy documents, drawing on their extensive expertise in international trade policy.
NETWORKING DRINKS IN BRUSSELS
November 20, 2024
TradeExperettes, Women in Trade, and OWIT Brussels co-hosted a networking drinks evening at Grand Central in Brussels. Professionals gathered to connect, share insights, and build relationships in an informal setting. Attendees enjoyed lively conversations and the opportunity to expand their professional networks.
NETWORKING AND TACOS IN GENEVA
November 21, 2024
TradeExperettes brought together professionals for an engaging evening at El Catrin in Geneva. Members gathered to enjoy delicious tacos while networking and exchanging insights. The event provided an opportunity for trade professionals to connect, share ideas, and build community in a vibrant, informal atmosphere.
NETWORKING DRINKS IN LONDON
November 25, 2024
TradeExperettes recently held a vibrant meet-and-greet in London at Cittie of Yorke. Members connected with fellow professionals and met Hanna Norberg, the organization's President. The event provided an excellent platform for networking, idea exchange, and community building among London-based TradeExperettes members.
MENTORETTES: FLAGSHIP MENTORING PROGRAM
June to December, 2024
TradeExperettes held the 3rd official edition of Mentorettes - its flagship mentoring programme - from June to December 2024. Following the official presentation of the Summer 2024 edition on April 30, almost 40 members responded to the call of application for mentors and mentees. Out of the 14 members selected, five mentor-mentee pairs successfully completed the mentoring programme in December 2024.
THE LATEST SCOOP
Top content to revisit
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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.
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BY EMILIE KERSTENS & BELÉN GRACIA – In a recent webinar hosted by TradeExperettes, esteemed experts including WTO DDG Johanna Hill, Alice Tipping, Director of Trade and Sustainable Development at the IISD, and Tiffany Smith, Vice President for Global Trade Policy at NFTC, provided their insightful reflections on the outcomes of MC13, shedding light on its accomplishments, failures and perhaps most importantly, the path forward.
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BY CHRISTINE MCDANIEL – This week, all eyes are on the WTO 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) and its 2022 Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. Further rules proposed for MC13 would help members better target the underlying role of harmful fisheries subsidies that cause overcapacity and overfishing.
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BY JANE DRAKE-BROCKMAN & HILDEGUNN KYVIK NORDAS – The internet is a global public good that we can no longer take for granted. Recent years have witnessed escalating constraints on cross-border data transfers - undermining the integrity of the internet itself and threatening the global digital transformation. The WTO has a critical role to play to keep markets open, particularly to the benefit of MSMEs firms in developing countries. MC13 can contribute to this goal.
TRADE [S]HEROES
Showcasing the work of a leading woman in trade policy
TradeExperettes Advisor Dr. Cecilia Malmström has devoted her career to global affairs and international relations, serving in several key European leadership roles. As European Commissioner for Trade (2014-2019), she negotiated bilateral agreements with Canada, Mexico, the Mercosur countries, Japan, Singapore, and Vietnam. Her experience includes positions as European Home Affairs Commissioner and Minister for EU Affairs in the Swedish Government.
Currently, she is a non-resident fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics (PIIE). She hosts the Trade Winds series, where she engages with global policymakers, practitioners, and business leaders to discuss challenges and opportunities in global trade and analyze future international developments. Cecilia continues to advocate for multilateralism and international cooperation.
BEHIND THE BADGE
Hear from a TradeExperettes member
Cedric Amon, Research Associate, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Geneva, at the 2023 TradeExperettes networking event during the WTO Public Forum in Geneva.
Mark your calendars!
TRADEEXPERETTES MENTORETTES PROGRAMME 2025
Watch your inbox for an upcoming call for applications in January 2025 for Mentorettes, our flagship mentoring program. Mentorettes is designed by women for women looking to step up and claim their space in international trade, as well as for men seeking valuable guidance from outstanding female trade experts. If you want to receive career guidance from experienced TradeExperettes, apply to be a mentee! Or if you have professional experience to share, apply to be a mentor!
TRADEEXPERETTES NEW YEARS PARTY
Join us for the TradeExperettes New Year’s Party online on January 10, 2024, at 20:00 CET/14:00 ET!
As we embrace the promise of 2024, this casual get-together will serve as a self-care and spirit booster for all our members. Let’s connect, inspire each other, and kick off the year with renewed energy and enthusiasm! Don’t miss out on the fun—mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate together!
TRADEEXPERETTES MONTHLY MEET AND GREET
Brace yourselves for an exciting opportunity to expand your professional network and forge lasting connections. Our Meet and Greet sessions are designed to provide a relaxed and informal setting where you can get acquainted with fellow members and network.
Mark your calendars for the first Tuesday of every month, as we'll be hosting these highly anticipated gatherings.
Watch your inboxes for updates and be sure to sign up for the next 2025 Meet and Greet!
WRITERETTES AND RESEARCH CAFE
Looking for a shared virtual space to work on your projects? Join our TradeExperettes Writerettes resuming on January 17, 2025, and the Research Café on the first Friday of every month, starting February 7, 2025. 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 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.