BX3138 - Contemporary Issues in International Trade

In this subject, students will explore contempory issues and theoretical debates influencing international trade today. As part of this analysis, relevant policy implications are considered from both developed and developing country contexts. This subject provides the knowledge and skills necessary for interpreting international trade issues of countries at different levels of development. This subject also emphasises the analysis of recent issues such as the new developments in the WTO, bilateral/regional/multilateral trade negotiations and their potential economic, and societal impacts. At the end of the subject, students will develop knowledge of the theoretical framework and analytical tools necessary for the study of contemporary trade issues. It also examines emerging neo-protectionist trends and the potential impact of global and regional trade flows.

Learning Outcomes

• demonstrate in-depth understanding of current issues and theoretical debates in international trade, together with their policy implications;
• critically evaluate theoretical and empirical studies concerning international trade;
• critically review, assess and evaluate world trade negotiations from bilateral, regional, and multilateral perspectives;
• critically evaluate the role of the WTO within the global trading system and its ability to effectively adjudicate upon trade disputes through the dispute settlement mechanism;
• provide a detailed appraisal of neo-protectionist trade developments and the tools, such as non-tariff barriers, which are often at the forefront of this change.

Subject Assessment

• Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (30%) - Individual
• Oral > Presentation 1 - (45%) - Individual
• Written > Project report - (25%) - Group.

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.