World trade law
Module information>
The syllabus focuses on the law of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) which forms the core of international economic law.
The World Trade Organisation has more than 160 members and is a relatively young international organisation, beginning its operation in 1995. The course covers the history of the WTO, its objectives and how it operates, as well as examining the regulations and principles of trade in goods and overall will provide students with a firm understanding of this important organisation.
Module A: World Trade Organization institutions and dispute settlement
LWM51A
- From GATT 1947 to the World Trade Organization (WTO). History, objectives and framework
- Institutional aspects of the WTO
- Dispute settlement: basic principles and panel proceedings
- Dispute settlement: appellate review and implementation
Module B: Basic principles of trade in goods
LWM51B
- Introduction to GATT 1994. Tariffs and quantitative restrictions
- The most favoured nation and national treatment principles
- Safeguards
- Exceptions to GATT obligations (with special focus on environmental protection)
Module C: Specific regulations of trade in goods
LWM51C
- The Antidumping Agreement
- The Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Duties
- The TBT Agreement
- The SPS Agreement
Module D: Special World Trade Organization regulations
LWM51D
- Trade in services (GATS)
- Intellectual property (TRIPS)
- Regional trade arrangements
- Investment and competition policy
Assessment
Each module will be assessed by a 45-minute unseen written examination.
Sequence
It is strongly recommended you attempt Module A first, followed by module B.
How to apply
You can either apply for these modules individually or as part of the Postgraduate Laws programme.
These modules also contribute towards the following specialist pathways for Laws:
- Commercial and Corporate Law
- International Business Law
- International Dispute Resolution
- Law and Development
- Public International Law