WITA's Friday Exchange

A major court ruling on Section 122 tariffs is shaking up the trade landscape and raising new questions about how far presidential tariff authority can go. Our trade experts break down the narrow but consequential decision, the legal battle over “balance of payments” language, and the long-term prospects for the President tariffs after court rulings invalidating tariffs imposed under IEEPA and Section 122.The panel also dives into Brazilian President Lula's "dynamic" meeting with President Trump; President Trump's call with EC President von der Leyen; the high-level summit coming up between President Trump and President Xi, and the geopolitical balancing act facing Lula, Trump, Xi, and Europe as global trade tensions continue to simmer. The conversation then turns to what comes next: tighter legal discipline around Section 301 investigations, growing concern over litigation risks, and how the administration may rethink tariff narratives moving forward.Featured Speakers:Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade AssociationKellie Meiman Hock, Senior Counselor, McLarty Associates; Adjunct Professor, Georgetown University; Board Member, Inter-American Dialogue; former Director of Brazil and the Southern Cone, Office of the United States Trade Representative Daniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle EastKelly Ann Shaw, Partner, Akin; former Deputy Assistant to the President for International Economic Affairs & Deputy Director, National Economic CouncilMike Smart, Managing Director, Rock Creek Global Advisors; former Director for International Trade and Investment, National Security Council, The White House; former Trade Counsel, Democratic Staff, U.S. Senate Committee on Finance

In the latest episode of the Friday Exchange, our trade insiders examine mounting pressures on the global trading system that is getting squeezed like a tube of toothpaste, as geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions reshape priorities. With conflict in the Gulf tightening energy supplies and economic stability taking precedence, countries across Asia and Europe are stepping back from new trade deals. The discussion explores stalled negotiations, uncertainty surrounding Section 301 actions, and growing skepticism among U.S. partners facing fertilizer shortages, inflation, and shifting policy demands. Our panel also dives into mixed signals in Southeast Asia, Vietnam’s unexpected position in the spotlight, and what path remains toward stability in this fragile moment for global trade.Featured Speakers:Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade AssociationWendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade RepresentativeEd Gresser, Vice President & Director for Trade & Global Markets, Progressive Policy Institute; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Trade Policy and Economics - author of the Trade Fact of the WeekDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle EastJoe Damond, Non-resident Senior Associate at Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in their Southeast Asia program; former Deputy Assistant USTR for Asia

In the latest episode of the Friday Exchange, our trade insiders look beyond the headlines to examine what’s really happening on your screens and behind the scenes in trade discussions. The importance of USCMA to “big square states”; rethinking rules of origin; critical minerals, “unfair trade practices,” and trade with China. Our discussants also looked at choke points and leverage, China and critical minerals, and is there a danger of new tit-for-tat tolls on global shippingFeatured Speakers:Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade AssociationWendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade RepresentativeMark Linscott, Senior Advisor at the Asia Group and the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum; former Assistant USTR for South and Central Asia and WTO and Multilateral AffairsChris Padilla, Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group; former Under Secretary of Commerce for International TradeKellie Meiman Hock, Senior Counselor, McLarty Associates; Adjunct Professor, Georgetown University; Board Member, Inter-American Dialogue; former Director of Brazil and the Southern Cone, Office of the United States Trade Representative

In the latest episode of the Friday Exchange, our trade insiders unpack the administration’s evolving trade strategy from IEEPA tariffs, to new 122, 232 and 301 tariffs.  Our trade experts also discuss new rules for calculating steel and aluminum tariffs on things like whipped cream, beer and autos, and are the new tariffs driving up costs and confusion for manufacturers?  Our speakers also discuss new pharmaceutical tariffs, and what does “excess capacity” actually mean? Or is it like what Potter Stewart said about pornography: “I know it when I see it”?Featured Speakers: Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade AssociationEd Gresser, Vice President & Director for Trade & Global Markets, Progressive Policy Institute; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Trade Policy and Economics - author of the Trade Fact of the WeekKate Kalutkiewicz, Senior Managing Director, McLarty Associates; former Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for International Trade, National Economic Council, in the first Trump AdministrationDawn Shackleford, President at Looking Glass Trade, LLC; former Executive Director for Trade Agreements Policy & Negotiations, Department of Commerce; former Assistant USTR for WTO & Multilateral AffairsJoe Damond, Non-resident Senior Associate at Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), Southeast Asia program; former Deputy Assistant USTR for Asia

In the latest episode of the Friday Exchange, our trade insiders bring the heat! This week’s episode goes beyond a recap, it’s a full-on debate about the future of U.S. trade policy. Is Washington playing a high-stakes game to rebuild supply chains and outmaneuver non-market economies, or is it simply overplaying its hand?We also explore the ripple effects: smaller companies feeling pressure, investors weighing uncertainty, and the challenge of navigating overlapping tariffs and evolving policies. At the same time, we look at pockets of progress from targeted negotiations and efforts to strengthen domestic capacity and supply chain resilience.In a trade environment defined by uncertainty, urgency, and high political stakes, one question looms large: Is this strategy worth the cost?Featured Speakers:Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade AssociationBlake Harden, Managing Director, Washington Council Ernst & Young; former Trade Counsel on the House Ways & Means Committee; and a former Senior Attorney in the Office of the Chief Counsel at US Customs and Border ProtectionDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle EastChris Padilla, Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group; former Under Secretary of Commerce for International TradeStephen Vaughn, Partner, International Trade, King & Spalding LLP; former General Counsel at the Office of the United States Trade Representative in first Trump Administration, where he worked closely with the current USTR Jamieson Greer

On April 2nd, 2025 President Trump Announced his “Liberation Day” Tariffs and to paraphrase Hamilton (the musical, not the statesman) the world of trade turned upside-down. This webinar, WITA welcomed back the Trade Reporters to discuss this monumental year in trade.Featured Speakers:Shawn Donnan, Senior Writer, BloombergDavid Lynch, Global Economics Correspondent, The Washington PostAna Swanson, Trade and International Economics Correspondent, New York TimesKoen Verhelst, Trade Reporter, POLITICO EuropeModerator: Michael Smart, Managing Director, Rock Creek Global Advisors; former Director for International Trade and Investment, National Security Council, The White House

In the latest episode of the Friday Exchange, our trade insiders shine the spotlight on Europe, potential steel controversies, and the future of multilateralism. We break down the European Parliament’s not-so-enthusiastic move to advance the Turnberry Agreement with the U.S., while building in “sunrise” and “sunset” safeguards that allow the EU to walk away if Washington changes course. They also unpack what that means for steel and aluminum tariffs, why the details on derivative products could become a deal-breaker, and how rising prices, lost jobs, and political pressure are shaping the next moves. They also chat about U.S.–India trade, the WTO e-commerce moratorium, China, and taking the U.S. seriously on WTO reform.Featured Speakers:Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade AssociationDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle EastChris Padilla, Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group; former Under Secretary of Commerce for International TradeDawn Shackleford, President at Looking Glass Trade, LLC; former Executive Director for Trade Agreements Policy & Negotiations, Department of Commerce; former Assistant USTR for WTO & Multilateral AffairsJoe Damond, Principal, DamondGlobal LLC; former Deputy Assistant USTR for Asia

In the latest episode of the Friday Exchange, our trade insiders break down the evolving uncertainty around U.S. tariff policy as Section 301 emerges as a key tool to sustain leverage and potentially fill the gap. The panel examines the durability of existing trade frameworks and agreements, along with growing tensions with partners in Europe and Asia, where ongoing and potential Section 301 investigations could complicate negotiations and ratification efforts. The discussion also turns to the broader geopolitical context shaping trade, including the postponed U.S. China Summit, the increasing use of economic leverage, China’s control of critical mineral supply chains, and global energy vulnerabilities affecting the U.S. and its allies. Panelists also look ahead to the USMCA review, and potential divergence in outcomes with Canada and Mexico.Wendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade RepresentativeEverett Eissenstat, Partner, Public Policy Practice Group, Squire Patton Boggs; former Deputy Assistant to the President for International Economic Affairs and Deputy Director, National Economic Council in the first Trump Administration; and the former Assistant USTR for the Americas, among other rolesChris Padilla, Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group; former Under Secretary of Commerce for International TradeMike Smart, Managing Director, Rock Creek Global Advisors; former Director for International Trade and Investment, National Security Council, The White House; former Trade Counsel, Democratic Staff, U.S. Senate Committee on Financehttps://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/03/19/2026-05409/notice-of-continuation-and-request-for-applications-for-the-industry-trade-advisory-committees

In the latest episode of the Friday Exchange, our trade insiders break down the shifting landscape of U.S. tariff policy and the new Section 301 investigations announced by the Trump Administration. The panel explores whether the administration’s flurry of new Section 301 investigations targeting excess capacity across 16 countries and expanding forced labor concerns represents a strategic “wink wink, nudge nudge” plan B to rebuild the tariff framework and reopen negotiations with trading partners. The conversation also looks at cautious reactions from Asia and Europe, the delicate balance of stabilizing tariffs with China while scrutinizing other partners for unfair trade practices, and how these investigations could serve double as opportunities to refine tariff levels, and shape the next phase of U.S. trade policy ahead of the upcoming U.S.–China summit.Wendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade RepresentativePeter Harrell, Visiting Scholar, Georgetown Institute for International Economic Law; former Senior Director, International Economics, at the White House under President BidenDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle EastMark Linscott, former Assistant USTR for South and Central Asia and before that WTO and Multilateral Affairs and currently a Senior Advisor at the Asia Group and the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum

In the latest episode of the Friday Exchange podcast and video, our trade insiders discuss the uncertainty surrounding tariff policy following the IEEPA ruling, the expiration of Section 122 tariffs this summer, and how Section 301 might take its place. They also examine the durability of current Framework and Agreements on Reciprocal Trade, the potential shift toward more tailored tariff solutions, whether a restoration of the previous tariff regime is possible in a post-IEEPA-tariff world, and what to expect when we're expecting a China summit.Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade Membership AssociationWendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, who’s just back from AsiaEd Gresser, Vice President & Director for Trade & Global Markets, Progressive Policy Institute; author of the Trade Fact of the Week; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Trade Policy and EconomicsDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle EastMike Smart, Managing Director, Rock Creek Global Advisors; former Director for International Trade and Investment, National Security Council, The White House; former Trade Counsel, Democratic Staff, U.S. Senate Committee on Finance

In the latest episode of the Friday Exchange, our trade-insiders spoke about the fallout from the Supreme Court's ruling that the International Economic Emergency Powers Act (IEEPA) does not allow the President to impose tariffs; whether there’s a “large and serious” balance of payments deficit problem in the U.S. that justifies new tariffs under Section 122 (versus a current account/trade deficit); whether U.S. Companies—large or small - will ever see refunds of tariffs paid under IEEPA; will Section 301 enable the President to unholster his magic tariff sharpie again; how are other countries reacting; and will all of this end up back in court?Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy & Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant USTR for AsiaBlake Harden, Managing Director, Washington Council Ernst & Young; she previously worked as Vice President, International Trade, Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA); and served as a Trade Counsel on the House Ways & Means Committee, and in the office of the chief counsel at US Customs and Border protection Committee on Ways and Means, Subcommittee on TradeMark Linscott, former Assistant USTR for South and Central Asia and before that WTO and Multilateral Affairs and currently a Senior Advisor at the Asia Group and the US-India Strategic Partnership ForumChris Padilla, Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group; former Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade

Please join WITA for an Emergency Webinar to discuss the ruling by the United States Supreme Court that “IEEPA does not authorize the President to impose tariffs.”  Our trade-insiders will break down the ruling and the implications for U.S. trade policy. Featured Speakers:Kathleen Claussen, Professor of Law, Georgetown University Law Center; former Associate General Counsel, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeWendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeJoe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy & Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant USTR for AsiaPeter Harrell, Visiting Scholar, Georgetown Institute for International Economic Law; former Senior Director, International Economics, at the White House under President BidenKate Kalutkiewicz, Senior Managing Director, McLarty Associates; former Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for International Trade, National Economic Council, in the first Trump AdministrationChris Padilla, Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group; former Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, Department of Commerce, under President George W. BushModerator: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade Membership Association

In the latest episode of the Friday Exchange, our former trade negotiators examine the use of tariffs as leverage in trade negotiations, and the significance of deals with Indonesia, Taiwan, Guatemala, El Salvador, and North Macedonia - neglected no more! They also discussed how Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) still helps shape trade policy; the role of WTO disciplines in structuring agreements; and how should we think about trade deficit levels in evaluating success?Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade Membership AssociationWendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade RepresentativeEverett Eisenstat, Partner, Public Policy Practice Group, Squire Patton Boggs; former Deputy Assistant to the President for International Economic Affairs and Deputy Director, National Economic Council in the first Trump Administration; and the former Assistant USTR for the Americas, among other rolesDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle EastChris Padilla, Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group; former Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade

In the latest episode of the Friday Exchange, our former trade negotiators unpack the emerging U.S.-Bangladesh trade agreement. Did Bangladesh secure more favorable terms than India’s interim deal with the U.S.? What are the implications for other deals in Southeast Asia, Latin America and elsewhere?They also examine the administration’s broader trade strategy. Particularly, what it hopes to achieve with China, and whether the U.S.-China trade truce could last well into the future. Will new aircraft and energy purchases, critical minerals commitments, or new inbound Chinese investment shape the next phase of bilateral trade? And they discuss if it means anything that Congress started to reassert its Constitutional prerogatives.Featured Speakers:Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade Membership AssociationWendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade RepresentativeMark Linscott, Senior Advisor at the Asia Group and the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum; former Assistant USTR for South and Central Asia and before that WTO and Multilateral AffairsChris Padilla, Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group; former Under Secretary of Commerce for International TradeModerator: Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy & Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant USTR for Asia

In the latest episode of the Friday Exchange, our former trade negotiators unpack the trade deal everyone has been waiting for - a U.S.-India bilateral trade deal, announced by President Trump on social media, following right on the heels of the EU's trade deal with India.  How does this trade agreement stack up with the framework agreements on reciprocal trade reached with other countries; what does the US-India deal mean for Russian and Iranian oil imports; how does the agreement deal with the thorny issues of Indian technical barriers to trade and standards; what about the WTO e-commerce moratorium?Daniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle EastDawn Shackleford, President at Looking Glass Trade, LLC; former Executive Director for Trade Agreements Policy & Negotiations, Department of Commerce; former Assistant USTR for WTO & Multilateral AffairsArun Venkataraman, Partner, Covington & Burling; former Assistant Secretary of Commerce & Director General of the US & Foreign Commercial Service; and former Director for India and associate general council at USTR

In the latest episode of the Friday Exchange, former negotiators talk about the great diversification and global tariff de-escalation, the "new" India - EU trade agreement and potential for a U.S.-India trade deal, the U.S. turning up the screws on its trading partners, the UK and Canadian "business" deals with China, renewed U.S. tensions with Korea and Canada, weaponized bilateral trade deals, and more.Featured Speakers:Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade Membership AssociationWendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade RepresentativeMark Linscott, Senior Advisor at the Asia Group and the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum; former Assistant USTR for South and Central Asia and before that WTO and Multilateral AffairsDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle EastChris Padilla, Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group; former Under Secretary of Commerce for International TradeJoe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy & Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant USTR for Asia

In the latest episode of the Friday Exchange, former negotiators talk us off the ledge as the US and its European allies reach an agreement in Davos to turn down the temperature in the battle of the North Atlantic. They also talk about the use of tariffs and trade as economic statecraft, the implications of trade deals between the US and Taiwan, Canada and China, and glimpse a possible path forward on WTO reform.Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade Membership AssociationKate Kalutkiewicz, Senior Managing Director, McLarty Associates; former Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for International Trade, National Economic Council; former Director for European Affairs, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle EastSara Schuman, Managing Director and International Trade Practice Lead, Beacon Global Strategies; former Senior Trade Representative & Minister Counselor for Trade Affairs, U.S. Embassy Beijing, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeMark Linscott, Senior Advisor, The Asia Group; Senior Advisor, U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia, former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for WTO and Multilateral Affairs, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

In the latest episode of the Friday Exchange podcast, former trade negotiators look at the new trade deal between Taiwan and the United States, potential tariffs on countries that do business with Iran, and U.S. threats of a Greenland takeover. Our experts also discuss critical minerals, chips, USMCA, Venezuela, China and more.Featured Speakers:Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade Membership AssociationKellie Meiman, Senior Counselor, McLarty Associates; former Director of Brazil and the Southern Cone at the Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeChris Padilla, Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group; former Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, Department of CommerceModerator: Wendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

In the first episode of the New Year, former trade negotiators look at the nexus of national security, geopolitics and trade. They discuss the President's National Security Strategy; Venezuela and the "Donroe Doctrine"; gun boat diplomacy and tariffs; and investment considerations for big oil. Our experts also discuss USMCA, WTO Reform, what we might see if IEEPA gets overturned (did someone mention Section 338?), and who has the leverage in trade with China.Featured Speakers: Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade Membership AssociationWendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeMark Linscott, Senior Advisor, The Asia Group; Senior Advisor, U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia, former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for WTO and Multilateral Affairs, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeChris Padilla, Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group; former Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, Department of CommerceModerator: Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy and Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Asia and Pacific, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

On December 4, 2025 WITA hosted the CoChairs of the Coalition for North American Trade for a fireside chat to discuss the review of the US-Mexico-Canada trade agreement (USMCA).  The three leaders discussed how the agreement makes all three countries more competitive in facing global challenges.Discussion features:Kevin Brady, Senior Consultant at Akin; former Chairman of the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee. During his time as Chairman, he played a crucial role in passage of the USMCA in 2019.Kenneth Smith Ramos, Partner at Agon in Mexico City, Mexico’s former Chief Negotiator for the modernization of NAFTA; former Head of the Trade and the NAFTA Office at the Mexican Ministry of the Economy in Washington, DC.Steve Verheul, Principal at GT & Co, Toronto, Canada’s former Chief Trade Negotiator for the USMCA; former Assistant Deputy Minister of the Trade Policy and Negotiations Branch at Global Affairs Canada; and former Chief Trade Negotiator between Canada & the European Union in the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.Moderator, Nasim Fussel, Vice President of Trade & International at the Business Roundtable; former Chief International Trade Counsel for the Senate Finance Committee; former Trade Counsel for the Ways and Means Committee; Chair of WITA’s Board of Directors.

On this week's episode of WITA’s Friday Exchange, trade experts dove into US digital spats with the UK, EU, and Korea, the recently released National Security Strategy and its “transactional isolationism,” and the recent US submission on WTO reform.Mark Linscott, Senior Advisor, The Asia Group; Senior Advisor, U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia, former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for WTO and Multilateral Affairs, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativePenny Naas, Senior Vice President, Innovation and Competitiveness, German Marshall Fund of the United StatesChris Padilla, Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group; former Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, Department of CommerceModerator: Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy and Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Asia and Pacific, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

This week on WITA’s Friday Exchange, former trade negotiators share their thoughts on the recent release of the National Security Strategy and its effect on evolving US economic security policy. Our trade experts also analyzed ongoing trade negotiations with India, Indonesia, and Vietnam, and news on trade and tech in China, and the recent hearings on the USMCA agreement.Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade Membership Association Wendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeMark Linscott, Senior Advisor, The Asia Group; Senior Advisor, U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia, former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for WTO and Multilateral Affairs, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeModerator: Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy and Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Asia and Pacific, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

This week on WITA’s Friday Exchange, former trade negotiators discussed the recent US-UK pharmaceuticals deal, shifting US-China trade dynamics in Southeast Asia, as well as a review of tariff policy this year and what’s to come next year. Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO,  WITA – The International Trade Membership Association Wendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeMark Linscott, Senior Advisor, The Asia Group; Senior Advisor, U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia, former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for WTO and Multilateral Affairs, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeModerator: Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy and Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Asia and Pacific, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

On this week’s edition of WITA’s Friday Exchange, trade experts covered the recent U.S. trade deal with Switzerland, the possibility of an EU-CPTPP partnership, and new tariff exemptions, all in the context of mounting public pressure on inflation and evolving views on a new global trade framework.Wendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeMark Linscott, Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia/WTO and Multilateral, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeModerator: Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy and Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Asia and Pacific, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

This week on WITA’s Friday Exchange, former trade negotiators helped make sense of recently released trade deals and frameworks with Latin America, Korea, and Vietnam; the potential for tariff relief on coffee and bananas; and assess the implications for international trade policy, trade deficits, investment, and inflation.Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade Membership AssociationWendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeMark Linscott, Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia/WTO and Multilateral, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeChris Padilla, Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group; former Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, Department of CommerceModerator: Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy and Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Asia and Pacific, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

On this week’s episode of WITA’s Friday Exchange, trade law and legal experts dove into the cutting issues raised at this week’s IEEPA hearing. Are tariffs the appropriate tool to deal with an economic emergency? If not tariffs, what powers does IEEPA give the president? And what do butter knives and steak knives have to do with this case? Tune into this week’s episode to find out.Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO,  WITA – The International Trade Membership Association Kathleen Claussen, Professor of Law, Georgetown University Law Center; former Associate General Counsel, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeMarty Lederman, Professor from Practice, Georgetown Law; former Deputy Assistant Attorney General, U.S. Department of JusticeModerator: Michael Smart, Managing Director, Rock Creek Global Advisors; former Director for International Trade and Investment, National Security Council; former Trade Counsel, Democratic Staff, U.S. Senate Committee on Finance

This week on WITA’s Friday Exchange, trade experts unpack the trade impacts of the Trump–Xi meeting; break down what we know about trade talks with Japan and Korea; deals with Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam, and other bilateral developments from Trump’s Asia tour.Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – The International Trade Membership AssociationWendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeSara Schuman, Managing Director and International Trade Practice Lead, Beacon Global Strategies; former Senior Trade Representative & Minister Counselor for Trade Affairs, U.S. Embassy Beijing, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeDawn Shackleford, President, Looking Glass Trade LLC; former Executive Director for Trade Agreements Policy & Negotiations, Department of Commerce; former AUSTR for Southeast Asia, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeModerator: Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy and Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Asia and Pacific, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

This week on WITA’s Friday Exchange, trade experts discuss President Trump's pique over anti-tariff ads and President Reagan's legacy, the new U.S.–Australia agreement on critical minerals and the prospect for trade deals between the US and its Asian trading partners, including an expected meeting between President Trump and President Xi.Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – the International Trade Membership AssociationWendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeDawn Shackleford, President at Looking Glass Trade, LLC; former Executive Director for Trade Agreements Policy & Negotiations, Department of Commerce; former Assistant USTR for WTO & Multilateral AffairsModerator: Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy and Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Asia and Pacific, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

On this week's WITA's Friday Exchange we dove into the tit-for-tat escalation in the trade tensions between the U.S and China that is dragging the whole world into the fight over foundational elements of the global economy. Our experts also discussed the potential for a Trump-Xi meeting, the APEC Summit, and the prospects for de-escalation.Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, WITA – the International Trade Membership AssociationWendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeChris Padilla, Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group; former Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, U.S. Department of CommerceModerator: Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy and Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Asia and Pacific, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

This week's episode of WITA's Friday Exchange was recorded during the 2025 WITA Virtual Intensive Trade Seminar. Speakers discussed the evolution of U.S. trade policy making in the 21st Century, dissected current trade policy developments, and analyzed the push and pull between three branches of government in the U.S: Congress, the Executive, and the Courts.Featured Speakers:Peter Harrell, Non-Resident Fellow, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace ; former Senior Director for International Economics and Competitiveness, National Security Council; Deputy Assistant Secretary, Counter Threat Finance and Sanctions, U.S. Department of StateBrian Pomper, Partner, Akin; former Chief International Trade Counsel, U.S. Senate Finance CommitteeStephen Vaughn, Partner, King & Spalding; former General Counsel, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeModerator: Nicole Bivens Collinson, Managing Principal, Operating Committee, International Trade & Government Relations Practice Leader, Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.

This week on WITA’s Friday Exchange, former trade negotiators turn their focus towards the world's most populous country, India, where trade frictions have defined the relationship for generations.  Guests discuss the geopolitical complexities of trade with India, tariff and non-tariff barriers, and key issues such as agriculture and digital trade.Featured Guests: Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, Washington International Trade AssociationDawn Shackleford, President at Looking Glass Trade, LLC; former Executive Director for Trade Agreements Policy & Negotiations, Department of Commerce; former Assistant USTR for WTO & Multilateral AffairsMark Linscott, Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia/WTO and Multilateral, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeSharon Bomer Lauritsen, Agricultural Trade Consultant, AgTrade Strategies; former Assistant USTR in Agricultural Affairs; former Executive Vice President of Food & Agriculture, Biotechnology Innovation Organization; former Deputy of Agricultural Affairs, USTRModerator: Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy and Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Asia and Pacific, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

This week on WITA's Friday Exchange, former trade negotiators discussed a spate of new tariffs announced this week; the challenges facing negotiations for those who have yet to come to terms with the White House; and where things stand for countries like India, Korea, Vietnam, Switzerland and more!Featured Speakers:Wendy Cutler, Senior Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeMark Linscott, Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia/WTO and Multilateral, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeModerator: Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy and Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Asia and Pacific, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeSee more at wita.org

For this week’s Friday Exchange, we’re pulling one from the archives that many of you may have missed. On February 11, 2025, Sean Spicer, the former Press Secretary and Communications Director for President Donald Trump and onetime Spokesman for USTR spoke to the WITA membership about navigating trade politics in 2025. Sean’s message to WITA then still resonates today.Featured Speakers:Sean Spicer, Host of the Sean Spicer Show (YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts); former Press Secretary and Communications Director for President Donald J. Trump; former Communications Director of the Republican National Committee; former Spokesman, Office of the United States Trade RepresentativeModerator: Nicole Bivens Collinson, Managing Principal, Operating Committee, International Trade & Government Relations Practice Leader, Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.

On this week’s episode, former U.S. and global trade negotiators discuss the WTO and multilateralism, as U.S. trade policy shifts towards bilateral trade deals and countries seek to make the WTO fit for purpose in a changing trade landscape. Featured Speakers:Ignacio Garcia Bercero, Senior Fellow, Bruegel; Former Director for Strategy and Multilateral Affairs, European Commission; former Counselor, European Union Delegation to the United Nations; former Policy Officer, European Commission Bruce Hirsh, Principal, Tailwind Global Strategies; and former Deputy Assistant USTR for WTO & Multilateral Affairs, among other positions he has held.Maria Pagan, former Deputy United States Trade Representative and US Ambassador to the WTO; and  Former Deputy General Counsel, Office U.S. Trade Representative, among other position's she has held.Dawn Shackleford, President at Looking Glass Trade, LLC; former Executive Director for Trade Agreements Policy & Negotiations, Department of Commerce; former Assistant USTR for WTO & Multilateral AffairsModerator: Mark Linscott, Senior fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative WTO and Multilateral, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, among other positions he's held.

On this week's episode, former trade negotiators dove into the Trump Administration’s trade negotiations and announcements with Japan, the EU, Korea, Switzerland, and India, and discuss their broader impact on the global stage, including the Xi-Putin-Modi photo-op.Featured Speakers:Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, Washington International Trade AssociationDan Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeMark Linscott, Senior fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia/WTO and Multilateral, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeWendy Cutler, Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeModerator: Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy and Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Asia and Pacific, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeSee more at: wita.org

This week, WITA welcomes The Trade Reporters to the Exchange Podcast.Most weeks, we invite in former trade negotiators to update our viewers and listeners on U.S. and global trade policy. This week, we turned the camera around to ask our guests what is it like to report on trade in Trump 2?  Our guests discussed what they are hearing as they talk to policy makers, business leaders, foreign leaders, trade officials and everyday people impacted by the President’s trade initiatives.  To preorder David Lynch's new book, The World's Worst Bet: How the Globalization Gamble Went Wrong (And What Would Make It Right) - https://www.amazon.com/Worlds-Worst-Bet-Globalization-Gamble/dp/1541704061Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, Washington International Trade AssociationShawn Donnan, Senior Writer for Economics, Bloomberg; former World Trade Editor, Financial TimesDavid Lynch, Global Economics Correspondent, Washington Post; former Washington Correspondent, Financial TimesAna Swanson, Trade and International Economics Correspondent, The New York Times; former Staff Writer, Washington PostModerator: Wendy Cutler, Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office U.S. Trade Representative

Former Trade Negotiators Discuss This Week’s Tariff and Trade Developments within trade law and IEEPA.No one understands the dynamics with key U.S. trading partners better than the people who led these kinds of difficult trade negotiations for the United States. Panelists will update our viewers on the trade policy announcements, what remains undone; and what are expected next steps in these trade negotiations.Featured Speakers:Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, Washington International Trade AssociationKathleen Claussen, Professor of Law, Georgetown University Law Center; former Associate General Counsel, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativePeter Harrell, Non-Resident Fellow, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace; former Senior Director for International Economics and Competitiveness, National Security CouncilMarty Lederman, Professor from Practice, Georgetown Law; former Deputy Assistant Attorney General, U.S. Department of JusticeModerator: Michael Smart, Managing Director, Rock Creek Global Advisors; former Director for International Trade and Investment, National Security Council; former Trade Counsel, Democratic Staff, U.S. Senate Committee on Finance

Former Trade Negotiators Discuss This Week’s Tariff and Trade Developments.No one understands the dynamics with key U.S. trading partners better than the people who led these kinds of difficult trade negotiations for the United States. Panelists will update our viewers on the trade policy announcements, what remains undone; and what are expected next steps in these trade negotiations.Featured Speakers:Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, Washington International Trade AssociationWendy Cutler, Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeMark Linscott, Senior fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia/WTO and Multilateral, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeModerator: Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy and Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Asia and Pacific, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeSee more at www.wita.org

Former trade negotiators discuss this week’s tariff and trade developments with China.No one understands the dynamics with key U.S. trading partners better than the people who led these kind of difficult trade negotiations for the United States. Panelists will update our viewers on the trade policy announcements, what remains undone; and what are expected next steps in these trade negotiations.Featured Speakers:Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, Washington International Trade AssociationJeff Moon, President, China Moon Strategies; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for ChinaChris Padilla, Senior Advisor, Brunswick Group; former Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade, U.S. Department of CommerceStephen Vaughn, Partner, King & Spalding; former General Counsel, Office U.S. Trade RepresentativeModerator: Wendy Cutler, Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative

Former trade negotiators discuss this week’s tariff and trade developments with the EU.No one understands the dynamics with key U.S. trading partners better than the people who led these kind of difficult trade negotiations for the United States. Panelists will update our subscribers on the tariff and trade announcements, what remains undone; and what are expected next steps in these negotiations.Featured Speakers:Introduction: Kenneth Levinson, CEO, Washington International Trade AssociationDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeJohn Clarke, Former Director International Affairs European Commission, European UnionModerator: Penny Naas, Lead GMF Allied Strategic Competitiveness, German Marshall Fund of the United States

Former trade negotiators discuss this week's tariff & trade developments with Japan, Indonesia, and India.Featured Speakers:Introduction: Ken Levinson, CEO, Washington International Trade AssociationWendy Cutler, Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeMark Linscott, Senior fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asia/WTO and Multilateral, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeKate Kalutkiewicz, Trade Practice Lead, McLarty Associates; former Head of U.S. Trade Policy, Amazon; Special Assistant to the President & Senior Director for Trade Policy, White House Economic Council; former Director of European Affairs, Office U.S. Trade RepresentativeModerator: Joe Damond, Chair of International Trade Policy and Global Life Sciences, Crowell Global Advisors; former Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Asia and Pacific, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeSee more on our website: www.wita.org

Former Trade Negotiators Discuss This Week’s Tariff and Trade Developments with the EU, Brazil, Canada and MexicoNo one understands the dynamics with key U.S. trading partners better than the people who led these kind of difficult trade negotiations for the United States. Panelists will update our viewers on the trade policy announcements, what remains undone; and what are expected next steps in these trade negotiations.This Week's Featured Speakers:Introduction: Ken Levinson, CEO, Washington International Trade AssociationEverett Eissenstat, Partner, Public Policy Practice Group, Squire Patton Boggs; former Deputy Assistant to the President for International Economic Affairs and Deputy Director, National Economic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for the Americas, Office of the U.S. Trade Representative; former Chief International Trade Counsel, United States SenateKellie Meiman, Senior Counselor, McLarty Associates; former Director for Brazil and the Southern Cone, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeModerator: Wendy Cutler, Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office of the U.S. Trade RepresentativeSee more on our website: ⁠https://www.wita.org/

No one understands the dynamics with key U.S. trading partners better than the people who led these kind of difficult trade negotiations for the United States. Panelists discuss the White House announcements; what remains undone; and what are expected next steps in these trade negotiations.This Week's Featured Speakers:Introduction: Ken Levinson, CEO, Washington International Trade AssociationWendy Cutler, Vice President, Asia Society Policy Institute; former Acting Deputy U.S. Trade Representative, Office U.S. Trade RepresentativeMark Linscott, Senior Advisor, Trade Policy, US-India Strategic Partnership Forum; Senior Advisor, The Asia Group; Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for South and Central Asian Affairs, Office U.S. Trade RepresentativeDaniel Mullaney, Non-Resident Senior Fellow, Atlantic Council; former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East, Office U.S. Trade RepresentativeModerator: Michael Smart, Managing Director, Rock Creek Global Advisors; former Director for International Trade and Investment, National Security Council, The White House; former Trade Counsel, Democratic Staff, U.S. Senate Committee on FinanceSee more on our website: https://www.wita.org/