The new age of Western industrial policy: Is there a new playbook?

Date
March 11, 2026, 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM EDT
Virtual Event
Cecilia Malmström (PIIE), Sean Doherty (World Economic Forum), Alicia García-Herrero (Bruegel; Hong Kong University of Science and Technology) and Peter S. Rashish (American-German Institute; Jean Monnet Institute)
Event Summary

Industrial policy is again high on the agenda in many countries, with many tools shaping it. The impetus driving the policy is often related to classic competitiveness and innovation but also to developing economic security, strategic autonomy, and national champions. “Buy American” or “European preference” procurement requirements signal a more protectionist approach. Such strategies in Western countries are also designed to confront Chinese competition in a new way. How should we interpret this shift, and what will the consequences be for global trade?

HOST

Cecilia Malmström
Nonresident Senior Fellow, Peterson Institute for International Economics (PIIE)

GUESTS

Sean Doherty 
Head of International Trade and Investment and Member of Executive Committee, World Economic Forum

Alicia García-Herrero
Senior Fellow, Bruegel; Adjunct Professor, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Peter S. Rashish 
Vice President and Director, Geoeconomics Program, American-German Institute; Member, Board of Directors, Jean Monnet Institute

Video

Series

About This Series

Trade Winds explores the future of international trade—the challenges, possibilities, and where international efforts are headed—in a monthly virtual event series hosted by Cecilia Malmström. Join the discussion to learn from global policymakers, practitioners, business leaders from different sectors, experts, and more.