HKUST Business School Magazine

The enforcement of tariffs and trade barriers by the US on China in 2018 raised eyebrows as economists began to fear an economic ‘decoupling’ between the world’s two largest economies. No doubt, these events had a major impact that trickled down to even some of the smallest businesses in Asia. The trade barriers have also forced the two superpowers to readjust and reshape their roles in global trade. Each decision they make has implications for most of the world’s trade. To understand the far-reaching impact of the changing trade landscape, it is important to look into both the macro-environment and different aspects of its development. In a series of articles, eight of our distinguished faculty members share their expert insights and latest research into the trade conflict and how that has spurred developments that have impacted so many countries, businesses and sectors around the world. Understanding the Bigger Picture Global Trade in a Transformative Era