This course provides an introduction to the World Trade Organization (WTO). The main topics in this course include the basics of international trade theories and policies, the principles, nature, scope and structure of the WTO, the WTO's trade dispute settlement mechanism and the trade policy review mechanism, the WTO Agreements and their effects on world trade, including the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS), and the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). The course will also examine the relationships between the multilateral trading system and the preferential trading arrangements, and the issues facing the global trading system.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Demonstrate a sound understanding of what is the World Trade Organisation (WTO), including its principles, nature, scope and structure
2. Demonstrate a solid understanding of the main Agreements, including GATT, GATS and TRIPS, and their effects on world trade
3. Demonstrate a sound understanding of the multilateral international agreements and decisions which WTO Member States are required to give effect to in developing their trade policies, legislation and practices
4. Demonstrate a sound understanding of how the WTO works as a forum for multilateral trade negotiations, monitors national trade policies, and attempts to resolve trade disputes between Members
5. Demonstrate a sound understanding of the relationship between the multilateral trade system and the preferential trading arrangements
6. Demonstrate a strong ability to examine the main issues facing the global trading system