Existing multilateral rules of origin work for goods because they are things that can only be delivered from one place at one time. But the future of trade lies in services, and the bytes that underpin them make their “origin” impossible to track without intrusive surveillance. Trump’s pursuit of preferential trade deals risks pushing its trading partners into adopting China-style digital firewalls.
AI’s planetary impact is uncertain. From Climate Week NYC to COP31, choices now will decide if AI drives regeneration or deepens climate risks.
Canada must embrace bold financing tools for imports and investment to diversify trade, strengthen supply chains and reduce reliance on the United States.
Reclaiming cognitive autonomy in the AI age demands hybrid intelligence that preserves independent thought, strengthens human judgment and resists overreliance on machines.
India’s rise as an independent power challenges US strategy. Trump’s tariffs reveal the dilemma of wanting India strong enough to balance China, but not too strong.