How Women Trade: Gender and Inclusive Trade Policy

How Women Trade: Gender and Inclusive Trade Policy

October 16, 2025 · 44 min · Season 4 · Episode 8

About this episode

This episode explores the relationship between international trade and gender, focusing on the challenges and opportunities faced by women in trade.

In this episode of Trade Knowledge Matters, we explore the intricate relationship between international trade and gender, highlighting historical contexts, current trends, and the challenges and opportunities faced by women in trade. Our host, Amar sits down with experts Dr. Judith Fessehaie (Head, Women and Trade Programmes/SheTrades Initiative, ITC) and Dr. Simonetta Zarrilli (Adviser, ArtNet) to discuss the impact of global value chains, protectionism, and digital trade on women's participation in the economy, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies and collaboration across sectors to achieve gender equality in trade. Key Takeaways Mainstream economics has historically neglected gender issues in trade policy. Women have played significant roles in trade throughout history. Global value chains have created new job opportunities for women. Despite progress, the gender pay gap remains a significant issue. Women are often underrepresented in leadership and ownership roles in trade. Rising protectionism poses new challenges for women in low-income countries. Sustainability standards can enhance gender equality in trade. Digital trade offers new avenues for women entrepreneurs…

People in this episode

Host: Amar

Guests: Dr. Judith Fessehaie, Dr. Simonetta Zarrilli

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Women and Trade Programmes/SheTrades Initiative, ITC, ArtNet, Trade Knowledge Exchange

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