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Multilateralising Regionalism: Relaxing the Rules of Origin Or Can Those Pecs Be Flexed?

Author

Listed:
  • Patricia Augier
  • Michael Gasiorek
  • Charles Lai-Tong

    (Centre for the Analysis of Regional Integration at Sussex, Department of Economics, University of Sussex)

Abstract

In this paper we first explain why rules of origin are a necessary feature of preferential trading arrangements, but why they also serve to distort trade and can therefore be used for protectionist purposes, and why they have a powerful natural impetus towards strengthening the spaghetti bowl effect in international trade. Secondly, we then examine the impact of the relaxation of the potential constraining impact of rules of origin in the European context which was achieved through the introduction of the Pan-European Cumulation system (PECS). We provide empirical evidence at both the aggregate and sectoral level which reveals the positive impact of the relaxation of rules of origin via the introduction of “diagonal cumulation” arrangements between the EU and its’ trading partners. Thirdly, the discussion turns to a consideration of appropriate policy options designed both to minimise the spaghetti bowl effect, and to maximise the benefits from regionalism for developing countries.

Suggested Citation

  • Patricia Augier & Michael Gasiorek & Charles Lai-Tong, 2007. "Multilateralising Regionalism: Relaxing the Rules of Origin Or Can Those Pecs Be Flexed?," CARIS Working Papers 03, Centre for the Analysis of Regional Integration at Sussex, University of Sussex.
    • Handle: RePEc:ari:wpaper:0307
    as

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    File URL: http://www.sussex.ac.uk/Units/caris/wps/cariswp03.pdf
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