Title: Asymmetric Effects of FTA Deepening on Value Chain Structural Power and the Rise Path of the Global South

Speaker: Peng Shuijun, Distinguished Professor of Nankai, School of Economics, Xiamen University.

Abstract: Against the backdrop of counter-globalization trends and intensified great-power strategic competition, the large-scale conclusion and continuous deepening of free trade agreements (FTAs) have gradually become key strategic means for countries to participate in the formulation and governance of international economic and trade rules. The asymmetry of interdependence among countries in the global value chain network determines the imbalance of their structural power. While promoting the reconstruction of global value chains, does FTA deepening exacerbate the asymmetry of structural power among countries? How can the Global South break through the "low-end lock-in" and "high-end blockade" dilemmas to achieve the rise of structural power? Based on the deep trade agreement database and OECD input-output database, this study explores for the first time the asymmetric impact of FTA deepening on value chain structural power and its formation mechanism, and provides theoretical support and quantitative basis for promoting the Global South to achieve power rise and build a more open, inclusive, fair, and mutually beneficial new global economic and trade governance system.

Date & time: 29 May 2026, 14:30

Venue: B321, Zhixin Building, Central Campus, Shandong University