Geopolitical rivalry, technological disruption and shifting patterns of globalisation are reshaping the conditions for economic growth. The United States and China increasingly use trade, technology and industrial capacity as instruments of power. For a middle power such as the UK, too small to write the rules alone and too exposed to remain outside them, a critical question follows: how can we sustain prosperity in a world where the economic rules are changing?
In her inaugural lecture, Professor Jun Du will draw on two decades of research into international trade, investment, innovation and productivity to explore what enables firms and economies to adapt, compete and prosper.
Why do some investments, innovations and policy interventions build lasting productive capabilities, while others fail to deliver? How do institutions, incentives and international connections influence the decisions firms make? And what can policymakers do to strengthen the UK’s resilience and competitiveness in an increasingly fragmented global economy?
Bringing together evidence from some of the defining economic challenges of recent years, Professor Jun Du will explore both the opportunities and vulnerabilities created by global integration. From the lessons of Brexit and changing global supply chains to the race to control the software at the heart of the modern car, she will consider the growing tensions between industrial strategy, trade policy and technological competition.
Connecting these global challenges to Manchester’s industrial heritage and its experience of attracting international investment, the lecture will consider the choices facing the UK today and ask what it will take for a middle power to build an economy capable not only of competing now, but of securing its place among the giants in the decades ahead.
What is The Productivity Institute?
The Productivity Institute (TPI) is a UK-wide research organisation focused on understanding and addressing the UK’s longstanding productivity challenges. Funded by the ESRC and headquartered at Alliance Manchester Business School, TPI brings together researchers from a national network of academic partners and works with policymakers, businesses and regional organisations to ensure productivity research informs the decisions that shape the economy.
The lecture will be followed by networking drinks, offering an opportunity to continue the conversation with fellow guests from academia, policy and beyond.
This event will be of particular interest to researchers, policymakers, civil servants, business leaders and anyone interested in the future of UK productivity, trade and industrial strategy.
Please be aware that photography and videography will be taking place during this event. By registering for and attending the event, you grant Alliance Manchester Business School permission to capture and use photos and videos of your likeness for promotional purposes. If you prefer not to have your image used in any promotional materials, please inform a member of staff upon your arrival.