Ashley Song Libri

Exploring the complexities of the World Trade Organization, this book delves into the tension between multilateralism and bilateralism, particularly through Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) and Free Trade Areas (FTAs). It examines whether PTAs serve as lex specialis or lex posterior in relation to WTO law, highlighting the implications for member autonomy and trade benefits. The role of the Committee of Regional Trade Agreements is critiqued for its inactivity, and the book addresses interpretative gaps in GATT Article 24 regarding "substantially all the trade." Additionally, it analyzes trade patterns using a gravity equation, identifying key PTA partnerships.

This book examines the successful transformation of GATT to WTO in 1995, highlighting improved compliance among members and reduced transaction costs. It discusses the dynamics of member behavior through game theory and Prospect Theory, emphasizing the need for fair trade liberalization and the challenges of enforcement. Ideal for scholars and WTO officials.