The Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government has opened submissions for papers and research proposals for its upcoming scientific conference examining the evolving relationship between finance and international trade amid rising global protectionism.
Organised in collaboration with the Arab Planning Institute, the conference titled Finance and International Trade in the New Era of Protectionism will take place from 28 to 29 September 2026 at MBRSG’s headquarters in City Walk, Dubai. The event will convene academics, policymakers, and economic experts from across the Arab region and beyond to explore emerging challenges shaping global trade and financial systems.
The conference will focus on how protectionist trends are transforming international trade, investment finance, and global supply chains, with particular attention to their implications for Arab economies. Discussions will examine policy responses needed to maintain economic resilience and competitiveness in an increasingly complex global environment.
Key themes include shifts in trade policy, financing challenges for trade and investment, the impact of non tariff barriers, industrial policy strategies linked to smart protection, and opportunities for deeper Arab economic integration.
Dr Ali bin Sebaa Al Marri, Executive President of MBRSG, said the initiative reflects the institution’s commitment to advancing applied public policy research and providing a platform to analyse global economic transformations and their regional impact. He added that collaboration with the Arab Planning Institute highlights the complementary role of Arab research institutions in shaping development priorities.
Professor Adel Al Wugayan, Director General of the Arab Planning Institute, described the conference as a joint scientific platform aimed at generating practical policy recommendations to strengthen economic resilience and diversify trade finance tools across Arab economies.
Professor Khalid Al Wazani of MBRSG noted that the initiative will explore the balance between economic sovereignty and free trade, particularly as modern protectionism increasingly extends into technological, environmental, and digital domains influencing global commerce.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
