Geopolitics is forcing businesses to change how they engage in cross-border trade and commerce. Governments are implementing policies that are disrupting global supply chains, data and information flows, and investment and technology transfers. Technology competition (Techno-Nationalism) among nations, primarily between China and the United States- but also between other countries- is reshaping the global economy. Some would describe this phenomenon as “de-globalization”, while others would call it a new kind of “re-globalization.” From a business perspective, the convergence of geopolitics with climate change, the aftermath of the COVID Pandemic, and military confrontations frictions have dealt the global economy a “perfect storm”. This has accelerated the fragmentation, bifurcation and localization of global value chains, which requires business leaders to rethink their strategies. Trump 2.0 tariffs and trade wars are amplifying the stakes in this cross -border game. Trade liberalization and open trade have given way to ‘geoeconomics’. Using a real-time case study approach, and drawing heavily on current business events, this course challenges students to analyze the external geopolitical dynamics that are changing how we conduct international business. Students are required to assess business risks and opportunities linked to current international affairs.
