Course Modules

Module 1: Fundamentals of Trade Negotiation

• Principles and stages of trade negotiations

• Bilateral vs. multilateral negotiation dynamics

• Role of power, interests, and concessions

• Case Study: Key lessons from WTO Doha Round negotiations

Module 2: Preparing for Negotiations

• Stakeholder mapping and interest analysis

• Setting priorities, red lines, and fallback positions

• Data and evidence preparation

• Workshop: Develop a negotiation preparation checklist

Module 3: Negotiation Strategies and Tactics

• Positional vs. interest-based bargaining

• Building coalitions and alliances

• Dealing with asymmetric power relationships

• Simulation: Practice session using real trade scenarios

Module 4: Communication and Persuasion in Negotiations

• Effective speaking and listening techniques

• Cross-cultural communication barriers

• Managing time and pressure during talks

• Exercise: Role-play a bilateral negotiation

Module 5: Multilateral Negotiation Mechanisms

• WTO negotiation processes and consensus building

• Negotiation groups and committees

• Case Study: Multilateral agreement on trade facilitation

Module 6: Handling Conflicts and Deadlocks

• Techniques to resolve impasses

• Mediation and compromise approaches

• Workshop: Breakthrough strategies for stalled negotiations

Module 7: Legal and Technical Aspects of Trade Negotiations

• Drafting treaty texts and legal language

• Understanding clauses, annexes, and schedules

• Exercise: Review and edit a draft trade agreement

Module 8: Negotiation Simulations and Mock Rounds

• Realistic full-day negotiation simulations

• Team-based practice with assigned country roles

• Simulation: Complete mock WTO ministerial negotiations

Module 9: Post-Negotiation Follow-Up and Implementation

• Ratification, compliance, and monitoring

• Managing domestic and international stakeholders

• Workshop: Create an implementation action plan

Module 10: Evaluating Negotiation Performance

• Key indicators of negotiation success

• Lessons learned and skills improvement

• Exercise: Debriefing and self-assessment reports