A convention for international trade (based on Islamic Sufi teachings)

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a procedure to remove international trade barriers globally. Trade is confronting various barriers in the present world, and this is due to the policies of governments to protect interests of their own citizens. Experience shows that trade barriers end up with incurring losses for both sides (traders) in practice, but a look at history of polemics on trade barriers removal in World Trade Organization (WTO) shows that countries are unable to overcome the obstacles they have created. Trade partners understand that removal of counter barriers is advantageous for both parties. In the meantime, being concerned of other party’s response impedes the benefits of free trade for all parties.

Design/methodology/approach

This proposition is based upon Islamic Sufism teachings. The propounded principles and goals are in accordance with high understanding of social and economic subtleties of humankind’s life. The authors try to form and formalize Islamic Sufi teachings to establish a base for compiling new international convention that facilitates international trade in all aspects.

Findings

To facilitate and promote international trade relations in short run, interested countries may accept a convention to remove all trade barriers among themselves all at once.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed convention does not go against General Agreement on Tariff and Trade and WTO, but it is complementary to both.

Practical implications

The proposed principles are actually shortcuts to what WTO may access in far futures.

Social implications

Islamic Sufism teachings can lead us to solve current international problems.

Originality/value

WTO has taken important steps to facilitate international trade. To reach the main goal of trade liberalization of WTO, a shortcut solution is proposed here.

Citation

Bidabad, B. (2015), "A convention for international trade (based on Islamic Sufi teachings)", International Journal of Law and Management, Vol. 57 No. 5, pp. 522-551. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJLMA-06-2013-0025