Written by Dang Quynh Anh

The IBBA program invited Professor Dramane Germain Thiombiano, Assistant Professor in the Department of Business Administration at National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, to share his insights in the International Economics course on October 22, 2026. His lecture focused on trade policies for developing nations, addressing the economic challenges and inequalities within the global trading system.

Professor Thiombiano introduced the trade characteristics of developing economies, including their reliance on advanced nations as trading partners and their dependence on primary commodities such as agricultural products, raw materials, and fuels. He discussed how countries including China, Vietnam, and Bangladesh have expanded into manufactured exports through improvements in infrastructure, education, and international trade integration.

The lecture examined three significant challenges faced by developing nations: unstable export markets, deteriorating terms of trade, and restricted market access. Through the example of coffee exports, Professor Thiombiano demonstrated how changes in global supply and demand can cause substantial price fluctuations, affecting export earnings and economic stability. He also explained how tariff escalation creates additional obstacles by imposing higher import duties on processed products than on raw materials.

Another important discussion concerned the differing trade interests of advanced and developing economies. Professor Thiombiano highlighted the contradiction between developed countries promoting free trade while maintaining protective measures in industries where developing nations have competitive advantages. He also examined how historical protectionist policies contributed to the industrial development of today's advanced economies.

The session provided IBBA students with a deeper perspective on how international trade policies shape economic opportunities across nations. It encouraged critical reflection on the fairness of the global.