C. Donald Brasher of GTIS Explains National Trade Policy

C. Donald Brasher of GTIS (Global Trade Information Services, Inc.) has spent over three decades as a U.S. trade policy and international trade data consultant. In this post, C. Donald Brasher explains national trade policy.

A critical aspect of trade on both a national and global scale, trade policy can be difficult to understand. The average person may not even know what trade policy refers to much less how it affects his or her daily life.

Trade policy encompasses the guidelines and regulations intended to keep the flow of trade running without incident. A country’s trade policy derives from the efforts of public officials drawn from various government departments who work with other nations to develop mutually beneficial trade policies. Countries that trade frequently with each other negotiate agreements to make their trade more efficient and profitable.

Security of imported and exported goods is a primary concern for many countries. Some nations enact stricter trade regulations than others, which may result in imports being inspected upon arrival, for example. All nations must strike a balance between protecting themselves from potential threats and showing trust in their trade partners.