Case Study
Trade and Investment Measurement Research Call-Off Contract
A partnership with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT)
The UK's decision to leave the EU has significantly increased the need for more timely, detailed, and reliable trade and investment statistics. To support a trade agenda that benefits everyone, it is crucial for the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), formerly known as the Department for International Trade, to have a clear understanding of the UK’s current trading and investment relationships worldwide, and to possess the tools necessary to evaluate the impact of various trade policies. Achieving this requires access to comprehensive and up-to-date trade and investment data. However, providing such accurate and robust measurements presents challenges. To equip negotiators and policymakers with the most relevant and up-to-date information, DBT must take a proactive approach in advancing existing techniques and exploring new methods for accurately measuring the complex dimensions of trade and investment.
Since October 2021, LSE Consulting’s Trade Policy Hub (TPH) has been delivering specialised expertise to DBT by being awarded the Trade and Investment Measurement Research Call-Off Contract to help DBT achieve its current objectives. The Contract has initially been awarded for 12 months, but has been extended until October 2024, with a maximum annual value of £500,000.
DBT's requirements
For this project, DBT was seeking partners who could meet the following criteria:
- In-depth technical understanding of the policy landscape
- Ability to manage and deliver multiple projects simultaneously, on time and within budget
- Familiarity with relevant published statistics and databases
- Strong methodological skills and expertise
- Excellent written and oral communication skills
- Proficiency in project management
- Effective contract management capabilities
Our approach
LSE Consulting’s expertise plays a vital role in enhancing DBT’s ability to identify innovative methods for measuring various aspects of trade and investment, especially in areas where measurement poses significant challenges.
By contributing to a better understanding of the UK's global trading and investment patterns, LSE Consulting helps DBT strengthen its capacity to evaluate the impact of different trade policies. Our work under this contract covers several key areas:
- Globalisation and Global Value Chains (GVCs)
- Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
- Trade in Services and Modes of Supply
- Transit Trade in Goods
- Digital Trade
- Trade and Employment
Our contributions
Through these efforts below, the Trade Policy Hub contributes to DBT’s ability to address measurement challenges, enhance policy assessments, and make informed decisions based on the most accurate and up-to-date data available.
Delivering research and analysis
We conduct comprehensive evidence reviews, literature reviews, and in-depth analyses of key dynamics in trade and investment policies, as well as their impact on the UK economy.
Econometric analysis
Our team undertakes rigorous econometric analysis to explore the intricate relationships between various trade and investment indicators and their effects on the UK economy.
Trend analysis in the international trading system
We closely monitor and analyse trends in the global trading system to assess the UK’s role within it.
Development of analytical tools
We develop databases and other analytical tools that empower DBT to conduct its own detailed analyses, ensuring they have the resources necessary to independently assess and respond to trade and investment challenges.
About the Department for Business and Trade (DBT)
The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) is a UK government department responsible for shaping and implementing trade policy, supporting businesses, and fostering economic growth. DBT's mission includes promoting the UK's trade interests globally, negotiating trade agreements, and ensuring that businesses have the support needed to thrive in a competitive international environment. By working closely with both domestic and international partners, DBT aims to create a favourable environment for trade and investment that benefits the entire UK economy.
