International Economic Law and Policy

1. Trump's Trade Policy, Day 1: Just a Memo

   There was a great deal of anticipation about what tariffs Trump might impose on his first day in office, but ultimately we just got a memo. (In response to a question from a reporter, Trump did say "We're thinking in...

2. The Optimal Tariff Argument at the Scott Bessent Hearing

   At his confirmation hearing last week, Treasury Secretary-nominee Scott Bessent mentioned "optimal tariff theory," which is something that always triggers me (although as I'll say later, I'm not sure he meant what he seemed to): Senator Ron Wyden: On the...

3. USTR's Model Negotiating Texts: Non-Market Practices and More

   Last week, USTR released what it referred to as "Model Negotiating Texts" on a number of issues: Competition Model Text Inclusive Economy Chapter Model Text Non-Market Policies and Practices (NMPPs) Model Text Public Enterprise Model Text Standards Model Text There's...

4. The Latest on Appeal/Review in WTO DS Reform

   I've been posting about official WTO documents related to appeal/review in dispute settlement reform. The latest one, from the heads of delegation meeting on November 21, is now available. There were no exciting new revelations, but just for the sake...

5. Unfinished Business: Bringing China Into the Club of Market-Oriented Countries

   Given where U.S. trade policy is at the moment, this doesn't seem like the best time for my latest piece, which is called "Unfinished Business: Bringing China Into the Club of Market-Oriented Countries." But sometimes all you can do is...