Gabriel Cabanas

Scholar background

Gabriel is a trade researcher with expertise in trade policy. His most recent role was as a Research Associate at the Council on Foreign Relations, where he worked with experts on multilateral trade and U.S. policy, co-authoring articles on U.S. trade agreements and Section 301 tariffs on China.

He previously interned at the Woodrow Wilson Center and the Corn Refiners Association, focusing on analysing U.S. trade, economic security and policy issues.

Gabriel holds a bachelor’s degree in International Studies and Economics from American University and is currently pursuing a degree in Foreign Service at Georgetown University, supported by the Hinrich Global Trade Leader Scholarship.

Alongside his studies at Georgetown, he collaborates with trade specialists at Ardent Eagle Solutions, reviewing exemption requests related to Section 232 tariffs affecting the steel and aluminium industries.

Personal statement

I grew up on the U.S.-Mexico border, moving frequently between San Diego and Tijuana. For years my family ran their agricultural business, selling produce on both sides of the border. Only when I grew older did I realize that this livelihood was made possible partially through NAFTA, an agreement that has played an important part in the livelihoods of millions of Americans and Mexicans in the border area. Over the past few decades, with the expansion of globalization and trade, cross-border relationships, both professional and personal, have increased throughout the world. However, we now live in a time of increasing isolationism and protectionism. The policies and agreements that have helped connect millions around the world are under threat, and many politicians are calling for inward-facing policies that could disrupt the economically important international trading system.

In my pursuit of the Master of Science in Foreign Service at the Walsh School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University, I aim to further my knowledge and involvement in the international trade space. I hope to use my voice to emphasize the economic and societal benefits of a globalized, connected world, and push back on calls to be more insular and nativist. I will draw on my professional and academic experience in Washington, D.C., to enhance my studies in the classroom, which will lead me to gain greater perspectives on issues affecting the international trading system.

I am honored to have received the Global Trade Leader Scholarship, and I am excited to be joining the Hinrich Foundation’s professional network. Being close to many experts in the international trade field will help expand my own views. I will work to utilize both the resources of Georgetown University and the Hinrich Foundation to push me further in my work toward defending the international trading system.

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