Course Description

Regional integration is undoubtedly the most important trade policy agenda of many developing countries. Regional trade agreements (RTAs) have risen in number and reach over the years, including a notable increase in large plurilateral agreements. The WTO agreements recognize that RTAs can benefit countries, provided their aim is to facilitate trade among its parties.  WTO members are permitted to enter into RTAs under specific conditions which are spelled out in three sets of rules. These rules cover the formation and operation of customs unions and free-trade areas covering trade in goods (Article XXIV of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade 1994), regional or global arrangements for trade in goods between developing country members (Enabling Clause), as well as agreements covering trade in services (Article V of the General Agreement on Trade in Services).  

Course Objectives

The purpose of this course is for participants to deepen their understanding of the main provisions of the WTO on RTAs, and discuss the main economic implications of regional trade agreements, and in particular what is the impact of negotiating on some the new issues covered by them.

It also aims at providing participating policymakers and analysts with the appropriate knowledge and tools to analyze (and design) such agreements and ensure that regional agreements help maximize the benefits from more open trade for developing countries.