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Anatomy of trade disputes: mapping patterns and trends of WTO dispute initiations (1995–2023)

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  • Iqra Yaseen

    (University of Kashmir)

  • Mohammad Shafi Sofi

    (University of Kashmir)

Abstract

The paper presents findings derived from an extensive dataset encompassing a total of 76,435 instances, meticulously covering 621 disputes initiated by WTO members. The coverage spans from 1995 to 2023. The presented statistical data are categorized into four distinct distributional units: The country unit, The agreement unit, the subject unit, and The time unit using descriptive data analysis technique. The study confirms that the USA and European Union are the predominant dispute initiators at the WTO. These disputes frequently cite the GATT 1994 agreement and often involve agricultural products. Notably, the research identifies a downward trend in the average annual number of dispute initiations over the examined period. Patterns and trends in WTO dispute initiations highlight shifts in the geopolitical landscape, changes in trade policies, and emerging areas of contention and provide critical insights into the evolving dynamics of global trade relations and the strategic behaviour of member countries.

Suggested Citation

  • Iqra Yaseen & Mohammad Shafi Sofi, 2024. "Anatomy of trade disputes: mapping patterns and trends of WTO dispute initiations (1995–2023)," DECISION: Official Journal of the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta, Springer;Indian Institute of Management Calcutta, vol. 51(4), pages 503-516, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:decisn:v:51:y:2024:i:4:d:10.1007_s40622-024-00411-1
    DOI: 10.1007/s40622-024-00411-1
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    WTO; Dispute initiations; Dispute patterns; Dispute trends; USA; EU; Trade governance;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • F10 - International Economics - - Trade - - - General
    • F13 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Trade Policy; International Trade Organizations
    • F14 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Empirical Studies of Trade
    • F40 - International Economics - - Macroeconomic Aspects of International Trade and Finance - - - General
    • F51 - International Economics - - International Relations, National Security, and International Political Economy - - - International Conflicts; Negotiations; Sanctions
    • F53 - International Economics - - International Relations, National Security, and International Political Economy - - - International Agreements and Observance; International Organizations
    • F55 - International Economics - - International Relations, National Security, and International Political Economy - - - International Institutional Arrangements

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