Regional trade agreements and GATT Article XXIV

by Liu, Yu-Tsyr

This thesis examines the wave of regionalism currently being experienced in international trade, which is rnanifested by the proliferation of free üade areas and customs unions, te.. regional trade agreements (RTAs). This thesis attempts to determine whether regionalism is welfare-enhmcing and is liberalising the global economy as envisioned by GATT Article XXIV. The answer is: not necessarily.