Who Won? Trade Wars and Australia

The global trading system is under growing strain. Security risks are increasing, free trade is in decline, and a new economic order is emerging in which nations increasingly view trade as a tool for gaining strategic and political advantage. Long-standing assumptions about openness, efficiency, and interdependence are being challenged by rising protectionism and geopolitical rivalry. How will changes in trade impact global supply chains? How can Australia respond as trade becomes weaponised? What role can diplomacy play in rescuing global trade? The launch of the new issue of Australian Foreign Affairs. Panel: Professor Shiro Armstrong (Director, Australia-Japan Research Centre, Australian National University) Melissa Conley Tyler (Executive Director, Asia-Pacific Development, Diplomacy & Defence Dialogue) Professor Nick Bisley (Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research), La Trobe University) Professor Bec Strating (Director, La Trobe Centre for Global Security) (Chair) Recorded 26th February, 2026.