We examine empirically whether and how non-tariff measures (NTMs) affect the formation of free trade agreements (FTAs). Using data from 114 countries over the period 1986-2019 and applying an augmented gravity model, we show that some of the investigated NTMs encourage, some discourage, and some...

The international trade regulatory system is a dynamic system that has been evolving throughout its history. Tension and conflict are part of the system. While calls for the abolition of the principal trade regulation authority, the WTO, have failed to understand this nature of the system,...

Regional trade agreements have proliferated in the past two decades while multilateral trade negotiations have stalled. Both these agreements are governed by the WTO and have to abide by the non-discriminatory (Most-Favored Nation, MFN) clause to varying degrees-regional agreements to a lesser...

The place of EPA’s in integrating Kenya’s economy globally cannot be underrated. Viewed objectively, EPA’s should be an efficient tool for the development of Kenya and Africa as well, however, we cannot alienate ourselves from the fact that for the same to be effective as originally...