NBR is leading a multi-year project to analyze the policy implications of China’s approach to standards, stakeholder involvement in standards setting in China, and the relationship between standards, innovation, and global competitiveness.

As the U.S. reviews its policy toward Burma/Myanmar, understanding the country’s evolving political and economic environment and humanitarian needs has never been more important. This is all the more true as Burma/Myanmar prepares for elections in 2010.

NBR’s research examines the trends, drivers, and implications of the challenges and opportunities presented by China’s new role as a global investor.

NBR brings together leading experts from the U.S. and Asia to provide analysis and policy recommendations on U.S. engagement with the region.

NBR publications and expert briefings have called attention to the role of services as the fastest growing sector of the global economy and driver of 80 percent of U.S. GDP, and the need to address lack of concrete data about job creation related to services trade.

The Islamic Finance Initiative aims to raise awareness among policy and business communities about Islamic finance as a global phenomenon. NBR convened a multinational conference entitled "Islamic Finance in Southeast Asia: Local Practice, Global Impact" in October 2007.