In this course, Vietnamese policy makers and managers gain a sound understanding of the institutional environment for international trade, both at the global, regional and national levels. By helping participants to connect theoretical assumptions about the determinants and effects of international trade with the institutional solutions that have been chosen at different times, the course equips decision-makers with the tools they need to analyze trade policy in the broader framework of political economy, as well as challenges to reform in developing countries.

The one-week study program (see class schedule) combines exposure to advanced concepts and principles in economics with institutional analysis of international trade rules and regulations. Based on theory and real-world researches, the class discusses a wide range of current issues that are directly or indirectly relevant to Vietnam such as WTO negotiations and accession, AFTA and regional integration, Việt Nam-US BTA, trade disputes. Two important and related issues are examined, that are foreign direct investment and sustaining competitiveness.

The course is taught in Vietnamese by a team of outstanding international and local trade economists and practitioners using a combination of lectures, case studies, and group work.

The course is designed for government officials both at the local and central levels, professional associations, researchers, and university lecturers working in the field of international trade and trade policy.