Sajad Thamir Kadhim Alkafage

The regionalisation of international trade rules represents a significant evolution in the global trading system, characterized by the increasing prevalence of regional trading agreements (RTAs) alongside multilateral frameworks like the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). These arrangements aim to enhance trade relations and reduce barriers within specific regions, reflecting localized approaches to trade liberalization. Different regional trade agreements may have conflicting rules and standards, leading to a fragmented global trading system. This can create barriers for countries outside these agreements, making it harder for them to access markets. This paper aims to explore the regionalisation of international trade rules, examining the development and impact of various regional trading arrangements (RTAs) within the framework of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). A doctrinal method is used in articles which discuss the regionalization of international trade rules and the impact of various regional trading arrangements (RTAs) within the framework of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT). The research found that the increase in regionalization of international trade rules has transformed the global trade landscape. Despite their benefit, the interconnectedness of numerous trade agreements can lead to complexity and inefficiencies that can weaken the multilateral trading system.