If I understand u correctly, u use the trade menu to choose what u offer to the AI.

Maybe the point u are confused about is that u also have to choose the stuff the AI will give u in return?

If the balance between the offer and the demand (both by input from u) is to the liking of the AI, it will agree (allow u to confirm it) to the trade.

For me this system is working well.

Death5 spell, Summon Copyright Attorney.  Works every time.

kenwithrow, the next beta is supposed to be all about bug fixes, tweaks, and UI.  It may be out this week.  I'd suggest checking to see whether your problem still exists after that.