In a context of global transformations and adjustments in trade policies, Chile and Canada reinforce their collaboration through a specialized workshop, held between July 22 and 26, directed by the economist and advisor to Canada's Global Affairs, Aldo Sandoval. The event, which marks the 27th anniversary of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between both nations, focused on the latest economic trends and analysis methodologies in international trade.

The workshop stood out for its practical and theoretical focus on advanced econometric methods, designed to measure the effects of trade agreements on key indicators such as exports and imports. Sandoval, known for his leadership in a previous study on the impact of the FTA between Chile and Canada, guided the participants of the Studies Directorate of the Undersecretary of International Economic Relations (SUBREI) in the use of these analytical tools.

Marie-France Paquet, chief economist of Global Affairs of Canada, inaugurated the workshop virtually, while Claudia Sanhueza, undersecretary of International Economic Relations of Chile, did so in person. Sanhueza stressed the importance of adapting to new global trends in trade: "Chile, as a small and open economy, has inserted itself into the global economy through an extensive network of Trade Agreements. In recent years, we have deepened and modernized several of these agreements, including new areas such as inclusive trade and sustainable development. The comprehensive evaluation of these agreements, using modern methodologies, is crucial for informed decision-making in trade policy."

In a time where global trade is influenced by factors such as digitalization, sustainability and social inclusion, the collaboration between Chile and Canada highlights the importance of evaluating not only the traditional economic benefits, but also the impacts on equity and the participation of diverse social groups. Ricardo Mayer, director of SUBREI Studies, mentioned: "Both countries recognize the need to evaluate economic agreements not only in terms of trade in goods and services, but also in their impact in areas such as the inclusion of women, SMEs and indigenous peoples. "Canada has already made progress in this evaluation with its triannual review, and Chile seeks to learn from that experience."

Sandoval's visit is part of a technical cooperation agreement on trade that will be consolidated in November with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between SUBREI and Global Affairs. This agreement reflects a global trend towards international collaboration in the evaluation and modernization of trade agreements, in line with the demands of an increasingly interconnected global economy oriented towards sustainability and equity.