Advanced Introduction to International Trade Law

'This volume is authoritative and nuanced, yet concise and highly readable. At a time when international trade law is becoming the de facto law of globalization, affecting practically every area of public policy, Advanced Introduction to International Trade Law is essential reading for policy-makers, scholars and students alike.' — Joel P. Trachtman, Tufts University, US 'Who better to provide this highly accessible yet thorough introduction to international trade law than Michael Trebilcock, one of the world's pre-eminent scholars in the field. It introduces all of the important issues in contemporary trade law in straightforward language, capturing the critical details of each topic with both clarity and brevity. It can also serve as an excellent companion to the thick textbooks that accompany international economics or international trade law courses, or help anyone interested in this topic to understand the issues without slugging through legal and economics jargon that makes other sources less approachable.' — Benjamin Liebman, Saint Joseph's University, US 'An essential volume for students of international trade law. Michael Trebilcock presents a comprehensive, concise and accessible account of the legal regime governing the trading system. This revised edition takes account of the latest developments in the field. Like the first edition, this one is a masterful treatment of the subject that should be on the shelf of everyone working in international trade.' — Andrew Guzman, University of California Berkeley School of Law, US A second and fully updated edition of the book previously entitled Understanding Trade Law, this book presents an accessible yet nuanced introduction to the basic structure and principles of international trade law. It explores the development of the international trade law regime, principally GATT and WTO law, and through clear and concise discussion of the many developments that have arisen, gives a streamlined overview of this notoriously complex area of legal study. Elgar Advanced Introductions are stimulating and thoughtful introductions to major fields in the social sciences and law, expertly written by the world's leading scholars. Michael Trebilcock provides a broad and deep narrative of the fundamental components of international trade law through succinct chapters, situating each topic in the context of broader domestic and international political economy considerations. The topics covered include: the emergence of the multilateral trading system (WTO); dispute settlement; tariffs; preferential trade agreements; the principle of non-discrimination; contingent protection laws; agriculture; services; investment; intellectual property; health; safety; environmental and labor standards regulation; and the role of developing countries in the trading system. Discussion is rooted by useful reference points to basic sources throughout. Written with the insight of 25 years' experience in the study of international trade law, this unique book makes a valuable addition to the literature and will be an indispensable reference point. It will be essential reading for students in law and a vital resource for those in economics, political science and international relations. Non-specialist scholars and policy advisors will benefit from the book's comprehensive and discerning exploration of the principles of international trade law.