Comparative advantage in de-globalisation: Brexit, America First and Africa’s Continental Free Trade Area
Journal of International Trade Law and Policy
ISSN: 1477-0024
Article publication date: 1 April 2018
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to examine the relevance of the theory of comparative advantage in the present realities of a world undergoing de-globalisation, that is, a retreat from closer integration.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper presents eight arguments that analyse the theory as posited by Adam Smith and David Ricardo and that theory remains the underpinnings for trade liberalisation as regulated by the World Trade Organisation (WTO).
Findings
The arguments do not contend with the role and achievements of the WTO in the era of globalisation. Rather, these call for an acknowledgement of the changing realities of countries in the face of changes in the political, economic and legal landscapes, across the globe.
Originality/value
This is an original submission by the author.
Keywords
Citation
Ezeani, E. (2018), "Comparative advantage in de-globalisation: Brexit, America First and Africa’s Continental Free Trade Area", Journal of International Trade Law and Policy, Vol. 17 No. 1/2, pp. 46-61. https://doi.org/10.1108/JITLP-01-2018-0005
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2018, Emerald Publishing Limited