Chapter 6: Russia’s Regional Free Trade Agreements and Agri-Food Trade After 2014

Christel Elvestad,Tatiana Isachenko

doi:10.1007/978-3-030-77451-6_7

Christel Elvestad, Tatiana Isachenko

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-77451-6_7

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Abstract

AbstractThis chapter analyses changes in Russia’s agri-food trade relations after 2014 with a specific focus on regional trade agreements. The introduction of countersanctions against Western countries in 2014 spurred the need to replace some of Russia’s most important foreign food trade partners. Free trade agreements can be effective instruments to boost trade and strengthen ties between countries. Russia is a latecomer in the race for free trade agreements, but a series of agreements have been negotiated since 2015. The portfolio of free trade agreements is still in an early stage, but there is a clear turn to Asia in Russia’s trade. China’s role in total trade as well as in agri-food trade with Russia is considerably strengthened despite the lack of trade preferences so far.

Highlights

Recent years have witnessed the rise of populism and economic nationalism
International trade in general is attacked from the political left and political right
In the United States, the Trump administration has led the way in attacking free trade

Summary

Introduction

Recent years have witnessed the rise of populism and economic nationalism. International trade in general is attacked from the political left and political right. In the United States, the Trump administration has led the way in attacking free trade. The political left points to rising inequality, loss of jobs, and stagnant incomes for the working class. The political right points to high trade deficits. Critics argue that trade agreements favour the interests of corporations over workers. Critics maintain that agreements put international interests above national interests.. Critics maintain that agreements put international interests above national interests.1 A contrary trend, has been an increase in the popularity of regional trade agreements, (RTAs)..

Elvestad (B)

International Context

Russia and the EAEU

Trade Agreements

Agri-Food Trade

Findings

Outlook