The Law and Economics of International Trade Agreements

This book provides a rigorous introduction to the law and economics of modern international trade agreements, with a bottom-up approach that requires neither a background in international trade law nor significant economics training. It charts a clear path from the historical origins of trade law and the international system to the current state of play, unpacking the major areas of controversy. It also discusses the economic theory of trade agreements, the role of international trade law in domestic legal systems, and the role of self-enforcement and formal dispute resolution mechanisms. With an international outlook, it addresses the role of China in the world trading system, looking at issues such as the credibility of market access commitments, China's industrial policies, "forced technology transfer" and currency manipulation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 510 pages
Publication date: 26 May 2023
Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd

This book, penned by the esteemed trade scholar Alan Sykes, offers a comprehensive and rigorous introduction to the law and economics of modern international trade agreements. With a bottom-up approach that doesn't require prior knowledge in international trade law or extensive economics training, Sykes aims to provide a comprehensive mapping and explanation of the complex dynamics of international trade agreements and institutions. By synthesizing legal analysis and cutting-edge economic research, he presents the reader with a sophisticated and holistic understanding of the field.

Against the backdrop of the current impasse in negotiation and dispute settlement at the World Trade Organization, the book charts a clear path from the historical origins of trade law and the international system to the current state of play. It unpacks the major areas of controversy, exposits the economic theory of trade agreements, discusses the role of international trade law in domestic legal systems, and analyzes the role of self-enforcement and formal dispute resolution mechanisms. It provides lucid and detailed analysis of the restrictions, exceptions, obligations, and special measures that constitute the core building blocks of international trade rules, including the distinct features of international trade in services. With an international outlook, the book also addresses the role of China in the world trading system, examining issues such as the credibility of market access commitments, China's industrial policies, "forced technology transfer," and currency manipulation.

Providing an eloquent, thorough, and technically astute overview of international trade agreements, this title is invaluable to scholars and teachers of international trade across the disciplines of law, economics, and political science.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781802209730