28 – 29 Apr
2026
World Trade Dialogue Hamburg
Paradigm Shift in World Trade: Transformation, Resilience & A New Era of Connectivity
Global trade is entering a decisive phase of transformation. Accelerating technological change, shifting geopolitical alliances, and the growing urgency of climate action are redefining how goods, data, and ideas move across borders. In this new landscape, resilience and connectivity have become the cornerstones of a sustainable global economy.
As supply chains are reconfigured and digital networks reshape commerce, both companies and policymakers alike face the challenge of balancing efficiency with security, openness with sovereignty, and innovation with inclusion. The rules and relationships that have governed international trade for decades are being rewritten, signalling not just adaptation, but a paradigm shift.
Initiated by the Kiel Institute for the World Economy and Hapag-Lloyd AG, Germany’s largest container shipping line, and jointly with Studio ZX the World Trade Dialogue Hamburg 2026 will bring together global leaders from business, policy and academia to discuss the impact of transformation, resilience and connectivity on the future of world trade.
Take advantage of this high-level platform to gain exclusive insights, form strategic alliances and discuss the way forward with key decision-makers.
Call for Papers for the academic program on April 29, 2026
For the second conference day, we invite submissions of research papers focusing on the following key topics:
- Global supply chains in a world of uncertainty and automation
- The evolving interplay between industrial policy and trade policy
- Effects of the US-China trade war on firms
- Digital trade and digital disruptions
- Innovating trade policy and institutional frameworks
Please submit complete papers for presentation at the conference as PDF files to trade-conference@kielinstitut.de by 6 March 2026.
More information and registration via