Sustainable Development Trends in International Trade, 2015–2020
Between 2015 and 2020, sustainable development gradually became a key issue in international trade. Especially after the signing of the Paris Agreement, countries continued to strengthen their requirements regarding climate change, green supply chains, and corporate social responsibility.
First, green trade policies grew significantly. The EU took the lead in promoting a low-carbon economy, establishing a "Circular Economy Action Plan" to encourage resource reuse and waste management. Globally, an increasing number of free trade agreements (such as the EU-Singapore and CPTPP) began to incorporate environmental protection clauses, requiring member countries to adhere to environmental standards and climate commitments.
Second, multinational corporations began to prioritize supply chain sustainability. Driven by rising consumer environmental awareness, more companies are proactively reviewing the environmental and human rights records of their suppliers. Brands such as Nike and Apple have established "Supplier Codes of Conduct" requiring partners to meet environmental and social responsibility requirements.
Third, the market for sustainable products has gradually expanded. Exports of fair trade, organic food, and renewable resource products are on the rise. For example, organic coffee, cocoa, and cotton from Latin America and Africa are gaining popularity among international buyers.
Finally, despite the rise in trade protectionism and the outbreak of the Sino-US trade war since 2019, environmental pressures have not diminished. In particular, in 2020, while the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily disrupted global trade chains, it also prompted countries to reflect on "building back greener" strategies and lay the policy foundation for future sustainable trade.
Overall, the period from 2015 to 2020 was a critical period for sustainable trade to move from the margins to the mainstream, laying the foundation for more systematic green trade regulation and corporate transformation.