SWATchat 11: Tariffs – The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

SWATchat 11: Tariffs – The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

16th July 2025 | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Levinsky Hall, University of Plymouth
Part of the Global Plymouth Phase II Launch

Think tariffs are just for economists? Think again.

Join us for SWATchat 11, a community conversation unpacking the realities of tariffs, how they shape global trade, impact local economies, and influence everyday lives.

This isn’t a lecture; it’s a lively, honest and inclusive discussion where global expertise meets lived experience. Expect big questions, bold opinions, and plenty of room for debate.

Keynote Speakers

Dr Patrick Holden
Associate Professor of International Relations, University of Plymouth
Patrick is a leading expert in international trade politics and diplomacy, with over two decades of research experience. His work spans the EU, WTO, UK Freeports, and the role of trade in the Global Sustainable Development Goals. Patrick regularly contributes to policy conversations on Brexit, local development, and global trade, and is widely respected for bridging academic insight with community and business engagement.

Dr Alexander Haupt
Associate Professor (Reader) in Economics, University of Plymouth
Alexander’s work focuses on the intersection of economics, environmental policy, and global integration. He has published extensively on international environmental agreements, tax competition, and sustainability challenges. A Research Fellow of CESifo Munich and member of key economic associations, Alexander brings a global lens to regional realities.

Panellists

Linda Middleton-Jones
Founder & Managing Director, International Trade Matters
With a career spanning over 25 years, Linda is a nationally recognised voice in international commerce. A pioneer behind initiatives such as the Manufacturing Barometer and the Global Trade Blueprint, she has shaped trade policy through practical innovation. From chambers of commerce to government advisory roles, Linda continues to empower businesses to navigate international trade through insight, experience and strategic sensemaking.

Victoria Ferguson
Managing Associate Practice Development Lawyer, Womble Bond Dickinson UK
Victoria brings over two decades of legal expertise in commercial contracts, both in-house and across international sectors. She has advised on global supply chains, tariff-related clauses, and resilience strategies. Based in Plymouth, she plays a pivotal role in delivering practical, sector-specific guidance on navigating complex trade frameworks.

Plus

• Live audience Q&A
• Refreshments & networking
• A space for curiosity, clarity and community-led insight

Don’t miss this chance to hear from some of the brightest minds in trade, policy and law and to be part of a grounded, inclusive conversation that matters.

Whether you're a student, a trader, an activist, or just someone trying to make sense of the world – this conversation is for you.

Free. Open to all. Come curious. Leave informed.

IMPORTANT:
To help us plan for catering and refreshments, we kindly ask that you register for the event by selecting ‘attend’ on the event page below. Please also include any guests you intend to bring along.

Venue:
The event will be held in the Roland Levinsky Building on the University of Plymouth campus.

Address:
University of Plymouth
Roland Levinsky Building
Drake Circus
Plymouth, Devon
PL4 8AA

This building is located directly opposite Drake Circus Shopping Centre.

Parking:
Nearby car parks include:

• Sherwell Car Park
• North Hill Car Park
• Regent Street Car Park

All are within a short walk of the venue. Please note that parking is not free, and availability may vary throughout the day.

Further travel and parking details can be found here:
https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/about-us/visit/getting-here

Want to find out more about this event?

Follow us on Instagram:
@globalplymouth
@swatchatplymouth

For enquiries, contact:
Dr Poorna Gunasekera
📧 poorna.gunasekera@plymouth.ac.uk
Shehany Warnakulasuriya
📧 shehany.warnakulasuriya@students.plymouth.ac.uk
Dr Sumalka Mendis
📧 mahamendige.mendis@plymouth.ac.uk

Global Plymouth – Connecting People, Building Community.