Roberto Echandi

Roberto Echandi is a prominent Lead Trade Specialist at the World Bank Group, where he has been instrumental in shaping international trade and investment policies. Based in Washington, D.C., he has extensive experience in domestic and international policy making, with a focus on the legal and political economy dimensions of investment issues, trade in services, and regional economic integration in the Americas.

Professional Background

Echandi has held various significant positions within the World Bank Group since joining in 2012. His current role involves leading research and policy advice on cross-border trade and maximizing the benefits of trade agreements. Before becoming a Lead Trade Specialist, he served as the Global Lead for Investment Policy and Promotion within the Trade and Competitiveness Global Practice of the World Bank.23

Prior to his tenure at the World Bank, Echandi was the Director of the Program on International Investment at the World Trade Institute in Switzerland. He has also served as Costa Rica’s Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg, and the European Union, where he was the chief negotiator for the Association Agreement between the EU and Central America.23

Education

Echandi's academic credentials are impressive, holding a Ph.D. in International Law from the University of Bern, an LL.M. from the University of Michigan, and an M.Phil. in Latin American Studies from the University of Oxford. He also earned a law degree from the University of Costa Rica and has been involved in academia as an adjunct professor at various institutions, including Georgetown University Law Center and the University of Barcelona.123

Publications and Contributions

Echandi has authored over 40 publications on topics related to international trade and investment law, dispute settlement, and regional economic integration. His expertise has made him a sought-after consultant for organizations such as the OECD, UNCTAD, and the WTO.23 He is also a member of the editorial boards of several academic journals related to international economic law.

In summary, Roberto Echandi is a highly experienced trade and investment specialist whose work at the World Bank Group significantly influences global trade policies and practices.