The United States, the European Union and the ‘globalization’ of world trade

Book abstract:

The author, Professor Thomas C. Fischer, emphasises in this book that there no longer is, or can be, a national economic policy unaffected by global pressures. He looks in detail at the emergence of three powerful and expanding trade blocs: America, Europe and the Asia/Pacific Rim. In the course of his consideration of many areas of economic activity, he examines the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA). Considerable attention is given to the European Union.
It is argued here that the traditional we-win/you-lose national trade paradigm has been replaced by one that is more collaborative, one that is leaning toward de facto world governance. He compares foreigners' attitudes towards trade and markets with those of the United States using four economic models that typify world trade today. He examines the interface between national, regional, and international trading systems and between business and government, then looks at the prospect of global trade management in different trade sectors under the GATT/WTO and other organisations. The result is a provocative discussion of global trade today.
Thomas C. Fischer is Professor of Law and Dean Emeritus, New England School of Law, Boston. His most recent book, 'The Europeanization of America', was nominated for the American Bar Association's Gavel Award.