Africa and the World Trade Organization

Mshomba provides a systematic study of Africa as it relates to the World Trade Organization.

Richard E. Mshomba (Author)

9780521514767, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 30 March 2009

384 pages, 4 b/w illus. 1 map 35 tables
22.9 x 15.2 x 2.5 cm, 0.73 kg

'As African countries turned outwards in the 1990s, global trade rules changed. Mshomba provides a balanced and comprehensive treatment of Africa's interests in the WTO. True to the diversity of the continent and the limits of its clout, this book embraces the continent's new ambitions and maps a way forward. A superb resource for policymakers, development practitioners, and students alike.' Steven O'Connell, Swarthmore College

Mshomba provides a systematic study of Africa as it relates to the World Trade Organization. He examines the WTO's enforcement mechanism; the WTO's broadened mandate, illustrated by the Agreement on Trade-Related Intellectual Property Rights; agriculture in the Doha Round; issues relating to transparency in government procurement; and the endeavor to streamline assistance to developing countries through an 'Aid for Trade' initiative. The author integrates theory and practice, with a clear presentation of important economic concepts. He provides a rigorous analysis of key issues and proposals. He presents African countries as having an important role to play in the WTO, especially as they actively engage in bargaining through various coalitions. Mshomba acknowledges that WTO negotiations will always be complex and at times contentious due to wide economic and political differences between countries. He views the differences, however, as creating opportunities for a mutually beneficial exchange of goods, services and ideas.

1. Introduction
2. Dispute settlement understanding
3. Trade-related aspects of intellectual property rights
4. Agriculture in the Doha development round
5. Transparency in government procurement
6. Aid for trade
7. Conclusion.

Subject Areas: International economics [KCL], African history [HBJH]