9 Trade ‘blocs’
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Asif H. Qureshi
Abstract
The phenomenon of trade 'blocs' poses interesting challenges for the international trading system. In a sense the definition of a trade bloc is a function of the perspective from which they are apprehended. This lack of a coherent definition could be attributed to the level and quality of the international consciousness that pertains to the enforcement problems trade blocs pose. This chapter aims to draw and sharpen the focus of attention on the problems of managing trade blocs within the World Trade Organization (WTO) framework. The constitutional structure of a trade bloc varies according to the genre of the trading association, and indeed as between associations. Most commentators are in agreement that trade blocs require management if they are to co-exist peacefully and in the framework of the objectives of the GATT/WTO.
Abstract
The phenomenon of trade 'blocs' poses interesting challenges for the international trading system. In a sense the definition of a trade bloc is a function of the perspective from which they are apprehended. This lack of a coherent definition could be attributed to the level and quality of the international consciousness that pertains to the enforcement problems trade blocs pose. This chapter aims to draw and sharpen the focus of attention on the problems of managing trade blocs within the World Trade Organization (WTO) framework. The constitutional structure of a trade bloc varies according to the genre of the trading association, and indeed as between associations. Most commentators are in agreement that trade blocs require management if they are to co-exist peacefully and in the framework of the objectives of the GATT/WTO.
Chapters in this book
- Front Matter i
- Contents v
- Series editor’s foreword vi
- Foreword vii
- Preface viii
- Acknowledgements x
- Abbreviations xi
- I The framework of the international trading system 1
- 1 Institutional aspects of the World Trade Organization 3
- 2 The WTO code 8
- II Implementing international trade norms – generally 47
- 3 Techniques of implementation – theory 49
- 4 Implementing the WTO code – generally 65
- 5 Dispute settlement 97
- 6 The Trade Policy Review Mechanism 108
- 7 Pre-conditions 126
- III Implementing international trade norms – specifically 135
- 8 Developing countries 137
- 9 Trade ‘blocs’ 148
- 10 The European Communities 164
- IV Appendix 193
- Selected extracts from The Final Act Embodying the Results of the Uruguay Round of Trade Negotiations; Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the WTO; GATT 1994; GATS; Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes 196
- Select bibliography 248
- Index 252
Chapters in this book
- Front Matter i
- Contents v
- Series editor’s foreword vi
- Foreword vii
- Preface viii
- Acknowledgements x
- Abbreviations xi
- I The framework of the international trading system 1
- 1 Institutional aspects of the World Trade Organization 3
- 2 The WTO code 8
- II Implementing international trade norms – generally 47
- 3 Techniques of implementation – theory 49
- 4 Implementing the WTO code – generally 65
- 5 Dispute settlement 97
- 6 The Trade Policy Review Mechanism 108
- 7 Pre-conditions 126
- III Implementing international trade norms – specifically 135
- 8 Developing countries 137
- 9 Trade ‘blocs’ 148
- 10 The European Communities 164
- IV Appendix 193
- Selected extracts from The Final Act Embodying the Results of the Uruguay Round of Trade Negotiations; Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the WTO; GATT 1994; GATS; Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes 196
- Select bibliography 248
- Index 252
