Research Library

In 2026, the USMCA will undergo an open-ended review that could result in anything from minor changes to significant renegotiations. Nonresident fellow Simon Lester discusses this unprecedented process and argues that the U.S. and Mexico must follow Canada’s lead in starting preparations.

Hoping to expand trade relations post-Brexit, the U.K. is forming nonbinding memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with individual U.S. states. Fellow David A. Gantz’s report navigates the complex political terrain and economic promises of these MOUs with a focus on the U.K.’s agreements with Texas and Washington.

The U.S. faces worsening maternal health disparities and mortality rates due to lack of access and unaddressed systemic barriers to health. In an issue brief, fellow McClain Sampson and co-author Priscilla P. Kennedy summarize the Biden-Harris Maternal Health Blueprint to achieve maternal health equity through a comprehensive approach and also describe a model of care for Medicaid recipients that is aligned with the Blueprint.

While the U.S. has tried to appear assertive in taking action against China’s trade practices, this strategy has yielded limited results. In a new commentary, fellow Simon Lester summarizes current U.S. policies addressing China’s trade conduct and advocates for the U.S.’ revitalized engagement with the World Trade Organization’s dispute settlement system.

Many tax treatments can help families and individuals cover college expenses, yet methods of paying for college may change with recent and forthcoming policies. In an issue brief, fellow Joyce Beebe reviews proposed policy reforms to federal student loan forgiveness and outlines updates to repayment plans, application processes, and accompanying tax treatments.

Qatar is significantly expanding its LNG export capacity, in a two-phase project that will cement this Gulf state as one of the top global LNG exporters for decades. At a recent meeting, the Baker Institute Middle East Energy Roundtable brought together experts, analysts, and industry leaders to explore how this expansion will impact gas markets and the global energy landscape

Will the U.S. ban future LNG sales to China? Fellows Gabriel Collins and Steven R. Miles examine a recent move by the Department of Energy to “temporarily pause” LNG exports to countries that do not have free trade agreements with the U.S. — including China.

Amid U.S. efforts to strengthen supply chains and counterbalance China’s growing influence, Mexico is poised to benefit from “nearshoring,” writes scholar Adrian Duhalt. This brief explores how the Inflation Reduction Act and rising trade tensions between the U.S. and China could help Mexico secure its top trading position with the U.S. for years to come.

Donor-advised funds (DAFs) have experienced substantial growth in recent years, prompting debate about abuses of this tax-advantaged vehicle and what policies should be adopted to close loopholes. Fellow Joyce Beebe reviews the design of DAFs, common criticisms, recent policy developments, and opponents’ arguments against additional regulations.