The Development Dimension: Special and Differential Treatment in Trade

This book examines the World Trade Organization's approach to special and differential treatment (SDT) and argues that it focuses on seeking exemptions from WTO obligations rather than creating an enabling environment for developing countries to integrate fully into the multilateral trading system. It suggests a new evidence-based, case-by-case approach to SDT to promote the development of the poorest countries while ensuring that advanced developing countries carry their weight in the organization.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book delves into a critical examination of the World Trade Organization's (WTO) approach to special and differential treatment (SDT). It argues that rather than fostering an enabling environment for developing countries to fully integrate into the multilateral trading system, the WTO's SDT approach primarily seeks exemptions from its obligations. The book is organized into six key sections:

United States Proposal on Special and Differential Treatment: This section provides an overview of the United States' proposal on SDT, which aimed to address the concerns of developing countries regarding the implementation of WTO rules.

Responses to United States Proposal: This section explores the various responses to the United States' proposal, including concerns raised by other WTO members and developing countries.

The Evolution of Differential Treatment: This section examines the historical development of SDT in the WTO, including its origins and evolution over time.

Failure of the Current Approach to Differential Treatment: This section highlights the limitations and challenges of the current approach to SDT, including its inability to effectively address the needs of developing countries.

Complications Created by China's Emergence in the Global Economy: This section explores the impact of China's emergence in the global economy on SDT and the need for a new approach to address the challenges posed by emerging economies.

An Alternative Approach to Differential Treatment: This section presents an alternative approach to SDT that emphasizes a case-by-case basis, evidence-based analysis, and a more equitable distribution of benefits.

By adopting this new evidence-based, case-by-case approach to SDT, the book aims to promote the development of the poorest countries while ensuring that advanced developing countries carry their weight in the WTO. The book will be of interest to scholars and students of international trade law and political science, as well as trade practitioners such as lawyers, diplomats, and analysts.

Weight: 124g
Dimension: 137 x 216 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367761080