It is evident that the world is changing. The strategic withdrawal by the United States from the global rules-based system has raised new questions about the future of global governance. Most nations continue to hold on to the principles of global collaboration, and for a good reason. The existing system has allowed for unparalleled economic growth in the post-World War II era through free trade. Can the rules-based system survive? I believe the existing global governance structure can be preserved through the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). The CPTPP: A Shield and a Standard-Setter The CPTPP is one of the most sophisticated trade agreements in the world, encompassing free trade in goods and services, robust intellectual property protection, facilitated business travel, stringent labor standards, and government procurement opportunities. The trading block consists primarily of middle powers: Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile...
President Trump’s tariff strategy, aimed at revitalizing American manufacturing, continues to spark debate across economic and political circles. While the intent is clear, the broader implications raise important questions about its alignment with long-term economic trends. The U.S. manufacturing sector has steadily shrunk over the past five decades, falling from 23% of GDP in 1970 to just 9.7% in early 2025. Job losses have followed suit, prompting concern among policymakers and workers alike. Yet this decline is not unique to the United States. Similar patterns are evident in Canada , Germany , and Japan . Economists point to a natural evolution in advanced economies: agriculture gives way to manufacturing, which in turn is overtaken by services. In the U.S., the service sector has expanded from 71.8% of GDP in 1997 to 83.7% in 2025, driving employment growth and contributing to a low unemployment rate of 4.1% . While this figure suggests economic strength, it also signals...