Advanced analysis of International Trade agreements

This chapter introduces the reader to the basic techniques and topics regarding trade negotiations, and describes the methods and results of all general agreement on tariffs and trade and world trade organization rounds as well as trade agreements negotiations. The structure of any trade negotiation may be analyzed through four dimensions: issues, parties, levels and linkages. The simplest negotiation involves just two monolithic parties negotiating over a single issue. Naturally, negotiations that take place among groups, organizations and nations simultaneously occur within the parties that belong to a determined party or country. Trade policy is usually shaped through multiple rounds of negotiations involving the same parties, a pattern that influences the negotiating process in several important ways. Synchronizing internal and external negotiations involves a delicate balancing act since their interactions may restrict tactical flexibility. It is worth making reference to the design of negotiation strategies.