The international trading system is increasingly under pressure, contributing to a slowing in the growth of international trade. The report brings original research, case studies and insights illustrating why international trade and investment are critical to Australia’s prosperity and benefits for everyday Australians. It reflects how trade and investment settings have changed over time and played a significant role in growing and shaping the Australia we know today, including our history as a trading nation in an interconnected world. It then discusses challenges facing the rules-based system and the importance of ensuring the benefits of free, fair and open trade are realised.

The report shows that trade and investment benefit Australians in several ways: 

• higher productivity
• more economic growth
• a stronger labour market
• broader consumption possibilities and 
• increased revenue to support government expenditure.