Vlerick Legal Alumni Club: Tariff Tantrums - Trump, Trade and What's Next

Once again, tariffs are at the centre of global economic strategy and political discourse. The USA’s aggressive trade position means businesses and policymakers now have to navigate a world where customs duties are doubling as domestic industrial policy, foreign policy leverage and campaign messaging.

Join the Vlerick Alumni Legal Club – and leading voices from economics, policy and practice – to assess where we’ve been and what could be coming next.

Programme

• 6.30 PM: Welcome and reception
• 7 PM: Keynote speech
• 7.25 PM: Panel discussion followed by a Q&A
• 8.15 PM: Closing drinks & dinner

Speakers

• Prof. Filip Abraham, Full Professor of International Economics, Vlerick Business School

Filip Abraham's expertise lies in European integration, the functioning of European markets, the competitiveness of European countries and companies, and international economics and business.

• Payne Griffin, Senior Director, FTI Consulting

Payne is an expert in policy and regulation. He advises clients on trade, national security and environmental issues. He served as Deputy Chief of Staff to the U.S. Trade Representative (“USTR”) Robert Lighthizer during the first Trump Administration, playing a key role in shaping and implementing the Administration's trade policy agenda.

• Thomas Kukanza, Senior Trade Advisor, Baker McKenzie

Thomas has more than a decade of experience in customs and international trade – and advises clients on trade-related topics.

• Ward Lietaert, Lawyer, Customs Legal

Ward advises clients on customs, excise duties and VAT. He is currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Antwerp.

Alumni partners: