International Trade Law Commons^™

Why Cuba's Global Tourism Allure Has Failed To Attract American Property Speculators, Adir Paner

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note examines the potential for Cuba to become a prime destination for American investment, particularly in its burgeoning tourism and hotel industry, driven by its natural resources and strategic location. However, significant legal and structural barriers, including restrictive government policies, the Helms-Burton Act, and inadequate property rights protections, hinder foreign investment. The analysis highlights the need for legal reforms and policy changes to address these obstacles and unlock Cuba's economic potential.

Reasonable Standards For Contract Interpretations Under The Cisg, Donald J. Smythe

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The United Nations ("UN") Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Good ("CISG") offers the promise of harmonizing international sales law and facilitating international trade and global commerce. But there is a "homeward trend bias" that may encourage domestic courts to construe the gaps in the CISG broadly and fill them with non-uniform domestic legal rules. Questions about contract interpretation under the CISG raise the same concerns about a homeward trend bias as questions about the interpretation of express CISG provisions. The CISG has express provisions governing contract interpretation but their application may not provide an unambiguous interpretation. This …

China's Investment And Trade In Africa: Neo-Colonialism Or Mutual Benefit?, Ying Chen

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The article examines whether China's increasing investment and trade in Africa constitutes neo-colonialism or a mutually beneficial partnership. It argues that China's involvement, characterized by significant economic engagement and aid, is not a form of neo-colonialism but rather a symbiotic relationship where both China and African nations gain substantial benefits. The partnership is driven by China's need for resources and markets, while Africa benefits from infrastructure development, investment, and technical assistance.

What's Islam Got To Do With It? Obstacles In Securing Fair Trial Rights Under Iran's Repressive Regime, Sara Barlowe

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note argues that the principle of Velayate Faqhih in Iran undermines the rule of law and prevents the development of a functional criminal justice system. This principle, which establishes the supremacy of Islamic law and grants the Supreme Leader plenary authority over the judiciary, leads to arbitrary law enforcement, corruption, and human rights violations. The case of Maziar Bahari, an Iranian-Canadian journalist detained on vague charges of espionage, illustrates how the regime uses detention and torture to suppress dissent and maintain political control. The note contends that Iran’s legal system, dominated by Sharia law and lacking judicial independence, violates …

Firmly Grasping The Knife: An Investigation Of The Asymmetric Application Of Chinese Antitrust Law As A Protectionist Tool, Jillian Bray

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note argues that China's Antimonopoly Law (AML), while modeled after Western antitrust laws, is often applied in a protectionist manner, disproportionately targeting foreign companies to shield domestic industries and state-owned enterprises. This selective enforcement contrasts with the U.S. antitrust system, which prioritizes fair competition and consumer welfare. The note advocates for aligning AML enforcement with international standards to promote a level playing field and foster long-term economic growth.

Panel 2: Issues In China For U.S. Businesses, Dan Harris, Cedric Lam, Ling Zhao, Lara Miller, Stephen Lamar

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The symposium examines the challenges of enforcing intellectual property (IP) rights in China, particularly for U.S. companies, and highlights the efforts of organizations like the American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) and the International Anti-Counterfeiting Coalition (IACC) to address counterfeit goods on platforms like Alibaba. It underscores the complexities of protecting IP in China despite relatively straightforward registration processes.

Utility Model Patent: An Essential And Improving Patent Scheme In China, Victor Wang

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note argues that China's utility model patent (UMP) system, despite criticism, serves as a beneficial tool for both domestic and foreign inventors, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). While commentators often view the UMP as detrimental to innovation policies, the system's low inventiveness threshold, quick file-to-grant process, and affordability make it a practical solution for protecting incremental inventions. The note contends that the UMP aligns with China's current status as a developing nation and supports its innovation ecosystem, contrary to claims that it hinders progress.

Panel 2: Practitioner Insights Into International Dispute Resolution, John M. Peterson, Ruth Teitelbaum, Simeon Baum, Claudia Maffettone, Russell A. Semmel

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The symposium explores the role of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) practices in addressing crosscultural and international legal disputes, emphasizing the importance of foundational ADR skills, cultural sensitivity, and innovative approaches like online platforms to facilitate dialogue. It highlights how ADR methods, such as mediation and arbitration, navigate the complexities of crossborder disputes, offering a more flexible and effective alternative to traditional litigation.

Protecting The Pachyderm: The Significance Of Ivory Trade Regulation For African Elephant Conservation, Sharon Montazeri

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note argues that the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) should have accepted CoP16 Proposal 12 at its 2013 meeting, which sought to prohibit future proposals allowing the trade of elephant ivory for nine years. The proposal aligns with CITES' mission to protect endangered species by eliminating incentives for harmful trade practices. While CITES relies on member states to implement conservation measures, the note contends that a trade ban, coupled with additional protections and public education, is essential to prevent further declines in African elephant populations.

Illuminating Corruption Pathways: Modifying The Fcpa's "Grease Payment" Exception To Galvanize Anti-Corruption Movements In Developing Nations, Ivan Perkins

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The article argues that the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) should be modified to require companies to report "grease payments," small bribes intended to expedite routine government actions. This change aims to enhance transparency, align U.S. law with stricter international standards, and combat corruption more effectively. The proposal suggests that mandating disclosure of such payments to the Department of Justice (DOJ), which would then publish the information online, would help activists, journalists, and foreign governments identify and address corruption. While the article acknowledges potential challenges, such as companies circumventing reporting or facing reputational risks, it emphasizes the long-term benefits of …

Is There Blood On Your Hands-Free Device?: Examining Legislative Approaches To The Conflict Minerals Problem In The Democratic Republic Of Congo, Emily Veale

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The article argues that Section 1502 of the Dodd-Frank Act, which mandates SEC disclosures for conflict minerals, is insufficient to address the violence and governance issues in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). It advocates for comprehensive legislation that ties U.S. foreign assistance to specific reforms in the DRC, such as military and governance improvements, to effectively combat the conflict minerals crisis. The SEC’s role in promoting social and foreign policy goals is critiqued, and the article proposes a tiered incentive system to encourage meaningful change in the DRC’s mining sector.

Taking Interdependence Seriously: The Need For A Reassessment Of The Precautionary Principle In International Trade Law, Markus Wagner

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The article advocates for a more prominent role of the precautionary principle in international trade law, particularly within the World Trade Organization (WTO) framework. It argues that this principle, which allows for preventive measures to avoid potential harm even in the absence of scientific certainty, is essential for addressing complex, high-risk issues such as climate change and endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). The article contends that the WTO's current reliance on robust scientific evidence for trade-restrictive measures may not be feasible or sufficient for such challenges, and it explores how the precautionary principle can be integrated into WTO law to balance trade …

Curb Your E-Waste: Why The United States Should Control Its Electronic Waste Exports, Louisa Olds

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note addresses the urgent issue of electronic waste (e-waste) management, emphasizing the need for comprehensive national legislation in the United States to regulate e-waste exports, collection, and recycling. Drawing lessons from the European Union's WEEE and RoHS Directives, the analysis advocates for uniform standards, producer responsibility, and strict enforcement to prevent illegal exports and ensure environmentally sound practices. The proposed framework aims to reduce the environmental and health impacts of improper recycling, particularly in developing countries, while promoting sustainable practices and resource conservation.

Much Needed Reform In The Realm Of Public Morals: A Proposed Addition To The Gatt Article Xx(A) "Public Morals" Framework, Resulting From China-Audiovisual, Tyler M. Smith

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note examines the tension between free trade and moral considerations under the GATT and GATS frameworks, focusing on the public morals exceptions in Article XXa of the GATT and Article XIVa of the GATS. It critiques the WTO's current two-tiered jurisprudential framework, particularly the provisional justification standard, for insufficiently addressing the balance between trade restrictions and moral protections. The author proposes a more robust analytical framework requiring states invoking public morals exceptions to demonstrate substantial domestic legislative and executive efforts to protect those morals, ensuring such measures are not mere pretexts for protectionism. This approach aims to foster predictability, …

Harmonization Of International Legal Structure For Fostering Professional Services: Lessons From Early U.S. Federal-State Relations, Amar Gupta, Deth Sao

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

In the current global marketplace, liberalization of trade in professional services (services) presents both big challenges and profitable opportunities for the international community. Changes in technology and state-privatization polices over the past half century have made services the fastest growing sector in international trade. Despite such a transformation, the potential for further innovation and expansion in services industries is in jeopardy. In response to public-policy initiatives, regulatory concerns, and political pressures to protect domestic jobs and industries, states have adopted a plethora of discriminatory and restrictive policies against trade in services. Because existing international legal mechanisms are ill-equipped to resolve …

Pro-Competitive Or Protective? The Chinese Anti-Monopoly Law, Implications For The United States, And Bilateral Antitrust Cooperation As An Effective Response, Benjamin Ryberg

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note examines the Anti-Monopoly Law (AML) of the People's Republic of China, highlighting its structure, enforcement mechanisms, and potential implications for international trade and competition. It compares the AML with the U.S. Sherman Act, noting similarities and differences, particularly in market share thresholds and exemptions. The analysis also explores the potential benefits and challenges of a bilateral antitrust cooperation agreement between the U.S. and China, emphasizing the role of positive comity in fostering fair competition and addressing anticompetitive practices. The note raises concerns about the AML's broad provisions and the risk of protectionism, while suggesting that such an agreement …

Class Actions In The European Union?: Importing Lessons Learned From The United States' Experience Into European Community Competition Law, Tiffany Chieu

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note argues that the European Union (EU) needs to establish an effective collective redress mechanism to address the challenges faced by victims of anticompetitive practices, who currently struggle to obtain adequate compensation. While the European Commission has proposed opt-in collective redress and representative actions, the note contends that an opt-out mechanism, akin to the U.S. class action system, would better deter wrongdoing and enhance compensation without fostering excessive litigation. The EU can draw lessons from the U.S. experience but must tailor its approach to avoid the pitfalls of a litigious culture.

Water As A Public Good: The Status Of Water Under The General Agreement On Tariffs And Trade, Bryant Walker Smith

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The article argues that water is not a "product" under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) due to the widespread and consistent assertion of public ownership over water resources through municipal and international law, which precludes its treatment as a tradable commodity under GATT. This "public-ownership consensus" implies that water resources remain under state control, and GATT's trade disciplines should not apply to water in its natural state.

Bringing Down The Walls: How Technology Is Being Used To Thwart Parallel Importers Amid The International Confusion Concerning Exhaustion Of Rights, Ryan L. Vinelli

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note examines the tension between intellectual property rights and free trade, highlighting the conflict arising from market segmentation strategies employed by companies like Sony. It argues that the lack of a uniform international standard on the exhaustion of rights exacerbates this issue, suggesting that an international regime under the WTO could mitigate market segmentation and promote free trade.

Haste Makes E-Waste: A Comparative Analysis Of How The United States Should Approach The Growing E-Waste Threat, Phoenix Pak

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note examines the global e-waste crisis, focusing on the regulatory frameworks in the European Union, United States, and Japan. It critiques the effectiveness of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) models and highlights the challenges of enforcing e-waste policies across jurisdictions. The author argues for a balanced approach in U.S. policy, combining elements of the EU’s EPR framework with considerations for domestic and international implications to address the environmental and health risks posed by e-waste.

The Failure Of The United Nations Convention On Contracts For The International Sale Of Goods And A Proposal For A New Uniform Global Code In International Sales Law, Christopher Sheaffer

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note critiques the United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG) for failing to achieve its goal of creating a uniform international sales law due to ambiguities, inconsistent judicial interpretations, and language discrepancies. It proposes the development of a new Global Code to address these shortcomings, emphasizing the need for clearer guidelines, a unified interpretation framework, and mechanisms to ensure consistency across jurisdictions.

Price Discrimination In The Textbook Market: An Analysis Of The Post-Quality King Proposals To Prevent And Disincentivize Reimportation And Arbitrage, Christine Ongchin

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note examines how the rise of the internet and legal developments, particularly the Supreme Court's decision in Quality King Distributors v. Lanza, have disrupted traditional price discrimination practices in the textbook industry. Historically, publishers engaged in third-degree price discrimination, charging higher prices in the U.S. market due to geographic isolation and limited arbitrage opportunities. However, the internet has facilitated reimportation and arbitrage, undermining this practice. The first sale doctrine under 17 U.S.C. § 109(a) further complicates efforts to prevent resale of cheaper, internationally purchased textbooks in the U.S. market. Publishers must now consider alternative strategies, such as contractual …

Tearing Down The Great Wall: The New Generation Investment Treaties Of The People's Republic Of China, Stephan W. Schill

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The People's Republic of China (PRC or China) has emerged as the world's premier destination of foreign investment in the developing world and is continuously strengthening its position as a source of outward foreign investment, notably in Asia and Africa. In this context, the PRC has concluded over 110 bilateral investment treaties (BITs) that grant protection against expropriation and establish other standards of treatment for foreign investors in China and Chinese investors abroad. While the PRC was originally hesitant regarding international investment protection, the country started, beginning in the late 1990s, entering into new generation BITs that break with her …

Selective Prosecution In Russia - Myth Or Reality?, Yelina Kvurt

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note examines the issue of selective prosecution, focusing on the case of Mikhail Khodorkovsky, and argues that the Russian legal system lacks an explicit defense against such practices, which violate constitutional guarantees of equality before the law. It advocates for the adoption of a legal standard to address selective prosecution, drawing parallels with the U.S. legal framework while acknowledging the need to adapt it to Russia's unique judicial context.

What's All The Fuss? The "Parade Of Horribles" When Applying 35 U.S.C. § 271(F) To Software Patents, Paul Margulies

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The article examines the challenges of applying 35 U.S.C. § 271(f) to software patents in international contexts, arguing that extraterritorial application risks overstepping U.S. jurisdiction and causing international tensions. It advocates for U.S. courts to consider foreign law in such cases to maintain global harmony and avoid conflicts with international agreements like TRIPS.

On-Line But Out Of Touch: Analyzing International Dispute Resolution Through The Lens Of The Internet, Benjamin J.C. Wolf

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note explores the evolution and challenges of international dispute resolution, particularly arbitration, in the context of the internet's impact on global trade. It highlights how arbitration, while effective, faces new complexities such as jurisdictional disputes and enforcement difficulties due to the internet's borderless nature. The author argues that while arbitration remains a vital method for resolving international disputes, it must adapt to the unique challenges posed by digital transactions to ensure continued effectiveness.

Who Will Control Frankenstein?: The Korean Chaebol's Corporate Governance, Jeong Seo

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

In a chaebol, because a dominant family exercises control with only a small equity-holding, a sharp disparity exists between cashflow rights and voting rights. The controller reduces managerial agency costs but creates his own agency costs. Furthermore, the disparity exacerbates the controller's agency costs. Outsider shareholders' voting rights are ineffectual in eradicating this problem. Therefore, external monitoring devices over the chaebol controller are required.

Korea has relied on government regulation-including attempts to change chaebols' ownership structures-to address this problem. Unfortunately, without well-functioning capital markets, the regulation has proved ineffective. As observed in the SK scandal, a market for …

A Mathematical Approach To Benefit-Detriment Analysis As A Solution To Compulsory Licensing Of Pharmaceuticals Under The Trips Agreement, Vishal Gupta

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The note proposes a mathematical approach to benefit-detriment analysis as a solution to the challenges posed by compulsory licensing of pharmaceuticals under the TRIPS Agreement. The core argument is that a socio-economic framework, comparing the monetary detriment to pharmaceutical companies (D) with the aggregate societal benefit (H x C), where H is the average health benefit per person and C is the number of affected citizens, can provide a balanced and objective method to determine when compulsory licenses should be granted. This approach aims to address the "Paragraph 6 problem" and improve access to essential medicines in developing countries while …

Investor Protection And Foreign Investment Under Nafta Chapter 11: Prospects For The Western Hemisphere Under Chapter 17 Of The Ftaa, Jacqueline Granados

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

The article argues that adopting NAFTA-like investor protection provisions in the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) could significantly increase foreign direct investment (FDI) across the Americas, benefiting both investors and host countries. It emphasizes the importance of balancing investor rights with public interest considerations, such as environmental regulation, and highlights the need for clear definitions and procedural safeguards in the FTAA's investment chapter. The article also underscores the role of legal reforms and policy liberalization in Latin American and Caribbean countries (LAC) to maximize the agreement's potential benefits.

The Free Movement Of Goods Within An Ec-Wide Market: Still A Work In Progress, Franz Leidenmühler

Cardozo Journal of International and Comparative Law

Right now, somewhere on the territory of a Member State of the European Community, a lorry carrying strawberries from another EC country is attacked by a group of masked men, who force the conductor off the road and render tons of strawberries unusable. Is it an ordinary criminal act to be treated within national criminal law or an invocation of the free movement of goods guaranteed by EC law? Not long ago, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruled in a landmark judgment that the free movement of goods requires the Member States to act against such private conduct that …