Trade rules are complex, sometimes open to different interpretations and often contentious. Most global trade is governed by WTO framework agreements which regulate trade between WTO members on the “most favored nation” principle and also set the ground rules that apply to “WTO-plus” bilateral and regional free-trade agreements (FTAs). Below these agreements sit a vast array of national (and sometimes regional) rules and regulations, including tariff and service concession schedules, customs laws and import/export rules. Understanding and complying with these rules can be challenging for businesses, but is vital for the success of import and export activities, providing services across borders and protecting investments in new markets.

With offices in more than 50 cities worldwide, our lawyers draw upon a vast pool of experience advising on the full spectrum of WTO rules and processes underpinning the international trading system, including trade treaty negotiation and trade disputes. Our team is made up of lawyers with extensive experience in trade law, trade treaties interpretation, trade treaties negotiations and trade dispute resolution mechanisms. Members of our team have served at the very highest levels in government and in diplomatic careers, leading on the negotiation of flagship international trade accords and important bilateral FTAs.