Dive into the fascinating world of global trade with this handpicked selection of documentaries. These films not only shed light on the intricate mechanisms of commerce but also explore the human stories behind the numbers. Whether you're a business enthusiast or just curious about how the world's economy ticks, these documentaries offer a rich tapestry of insights, controversies, and the sheer scale of trade that shapes our lives.

Life and Debt (2001)
Description: Based on Jamaica Kincaid's book, this documentary looks at the impact of global trade policies on Jamaica, showing how international trade agreements can affect local economies.
Fact: The film was directed by Stephanie Black, who spent over a decade researching the subject.


The End of Poverty? (2008)
Description: This film explores the historical roots of poverty, focusing on how trade and economic policies have perpetuated global inequality.
Fact: It features interviews with notable figures like Noam Chomsky and Joseph Stiglitz.


The True Cost (2015)
Description: This documentary examines the fashion industry, focusing on the trade practices that lead to exploitation and environmental degradation, offering a stark look at the cost of cheap clothing.
Fact: It was screened at the Copenhagen Fashion Summit, sparking discussions on sustainable fashion.


The Corporation (2003)
Description: This film explores the concept of the corporation as a legal entity, focusing on its impact on trade, society, and the environment. It's a critical look at how trade practices can influence corporate behavior.
Fact: The film was nominated for 10 Genie Awards, winning three, including Best Documentary.


Black Gold (2006)
Description: This film follows the coffee trade from Ethiopia to the Western world, highlighting the disparity between coffee farmers' earnings and the retail price of coffee.
Fact: The film was screened at the Sundance Film Festival and won the Audience Award at the One World Film Festival.


Food, Inc. (2008)
Description: While primarily about food production, this documentary also touches on the trade of agricultural products, revealing the often unseen aspects of the food industry's supply chain.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.


The Ascent of Money (2008)
Description: This documentary series, hosted by Niall Ferguson, traces the evolution of money and financial systems, providing a deep dive into how trade has shaped the world economy. It's a must-watch for understanding the historical context of trade.
Fact: The series was inspired by Ferguson's book of the same name, and it was nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award.


Inside Job (2010)
Description: This Oscar-winning documentary delves into the 2008 financial crisis, examining the role of trade in the global economic meltdown. It's an eye-opener on how interconnected trade and finance are.
Fact: The film was the first documentary to win the Best Documentary Feature at the Academy Awards since


The World According to Monsanto (2008)
Description: This documentary investigates the multinational agricultural biotechnology corporation Monsanto, focusing on its trade practices and the controversies surrounding its products.
Fact: The film was banned in France, where Monsanto has significant influence.


Bitter Seeds (2011)
Description: Part of the "Globalization Trilogy," this documentary looks at the impact of genetically modified seeds on Indian farmers, highlighting the trade practices of seed companies.
Fact: The film was part of a series that also includes "China Blue" and "The Harvest."
