International Trade Law
A foundation course introducing the international legal framework governing trade in goods and services, non-discrimination, tariffs, trade remedies and dispute settlement.
Academy pass mark: 80%
Public course: Anyone may study this course before applying for a Court service role.
Module 1 — Foundations of International Trade Law
Students are introduced to the legal framework governing international trade and the role of treaties and international institutions in facilitating predictable commercial relations between States. The course distinguishes public international trade law from private commercial contracts.
Module 2 — Trade in Goods and Tariffs
Students examine basic rules concerning trade in goods, customs duties and tariff commitments. The course introduces the importance of identifying the applicable trade agreement and the commitments made by the relevant States.
Module 3 — Non-Discrimination Principles
Students are introduced to core non-discrimination concepts in international trade law, including most-favoured-nation treatment and national treatment. The course explains that the precise operation of these principles depends on the applicable agreement and legal context.
Module 4 — Trade in Services and Regulatory Measures
Students examine the basic international legal framework governing trade in services and learn why domestic regulatory measures may interact with international trade commitments. The course stresses careful analysis of the relevant sector, commitment and treaty provisions.
Module 5 — Trade Remedies and Exceptions
Students are introduced to anti-dumping measures, countervailing measures and safeguards, together with the concept of permitted exceptions under applicable trade agreements. Students learn that trade restrictions must be assessed against the specific legal conditions governing them.
Module 6 — Trade Disputes and International Cooperation
Students learn how international trade disputes may be addressed through consultations, panels, arbitration or other mechanisms established by the applicable agreement. The course emphasises treaty interpretation, evidence and the importance of identifying the proper dispute-settlement procedure.