Introduction to the Law of International Trade - LEGAL473 (2023)

This paper will introduce students to the law and policies of current international trade regulations, both on the multilateral level (and hence an intensive examination of the procedural and substantive law of the World Trade Organisation (WTO)) and on the regional level (the law of Free Trade Agreements). Students will be invited to critically analyse the intended and unintended consequences of trade law on other policy objectives. In particular the so-called "interface" issues (the impact of trade law on the environment, human rights, development and other social policies) will be critically assessed. This paper will also explore how to protect Maori interests in international trade negotiations in light of recent reports by the Waitangi Tribunal.