Trade is the lifeblood of the global economy, shaping nations, cultures, and individual lives. This curated list of documentaries delves into the complexities of trade, from the bustling markets of Asia to the dark alleys of illegal trade. Each film offers a unique perspective on how trade influences our world, making it an invaluable watch for anyone interested in economics, politics, or simply the human condition.

Life and Debt (2001)
Description: Examines the impact of the International Monetary Fund's policies on Jamaica, showing how trade agreements and debt can cripple a nation's economy.
Fact: The film features interviews with notable figures like Bob Marley's widow, Rita Marley.


The Corporation (2003)
Description: This film examines the concept of the corporation, exploring how these entities have become dominant players in global trade, often at the expense of ethics and social responsibility.
Fact: It was nominated for 28 awards and won 10, including the Best Canadian Feature Film at the Toronto International Film Festival.


Food, Inc. (2008)
Description: A critical look at the industrial food production system in the United States, revealing how trade practices affect what we eat and how it's produced.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.


Inside Job (2010)
Description: An in-depth look at the 2008 financial crisis, focusing on the systemic corruption of the financial industry and its impact on global trade and economies.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in


The True Cost (2015)
Description: Investigates the fashion industry, revealing the environmental and social costs of fast fashion and how trade practices contribute to these issues.
Fact: The film includes interviews with fashion industry insiders and activists like Livia Firth.


The China Hustle (2017)
Description: This documentary exposes the dark side of reverse mergers, where Chinese companies list on U.S. stock exchanges to raise capital, often misleading investors about their financial health.
Fact: The film was directed by Jed Rothstein, who previously worked on the documentary "The War Room."


The Trade (2018)
Description: This documentary series follows the global drug trade, exploring how it intertwines with legal trade and affects economies worldwide.
Fact: It was produced by the creators of "Vice," a popular documentary series.


Black Gold (2006)
Description: Focuses on the Ethiopian coffee trade, highlighting the disparity between the price farmers receive and the retail price of coffee, questioning the fairness of global trade.
Fact: The film was directed by Nick Francis and Marc Francis, who also made "The End of the Line."


The World According to Monsanto (2008)
Description: This French documentary, available with English subtitles, delves into the practices of Monsanto, a company at the heart of global agricultural trade.
Fact: The film was directed by Marie-Monique Robin, who has made several documentaries on environmental issues.


The Ascent of Money (2008)
Description: Niall Ferguson traces the evolution of money and financial systems, showing how trade and finance have shaped history and continue to influence our world.
Fact: The series was adapted from Ferguson's book of the same name.
