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Geopolitical Conflict, Geoeconomic Manoeuvring, and the Law of the Jungle: Are We Witnessing the End of the Liberal Trading Order?

In: Geopolitical Risks and Geoeconomics in International Economic Law

Author

Listed:
  • Jianfu Chen

    (University of Melbourne School of Law
    La Trobe University)

  • Zhiqiong June Wang

    (Western Sydney University Law School)

Abstract

This chapter argues that the postwar liberal trading order is being destroyed by geopolitical conflict and geoeconomic manoeuvring. Developing country preferences politicised and fragmented the WTO. Major powers now struggle over rule-making through super-RTAs (TPP/CPTPP, RCEP, IPEF) serving geopolitical aims, while geoeconomic coercion—exemplified by superpowers’ bullying behaviour towards smaller countries—exploits WTO gaps by avoiding formal measures. Trump 2.0 represents a qualitative shift: open disregard for multilateral rules through unjustified tariffs and attacks on the system itself. The chapter concludes that we are witnessing the end of the liberal trading order, with fragmentation into regional blocs (EU, CPTPP, RCEP) likely unless states relearn the dangers of abandoning multilateral disciplines.

Suggested Citation

  • Jianfu Chen & Zhiqiong June Wang, 2026. "Geopolitical Conflict, Geoeconomic Manoeuvring, and the Law of the Jungle: Are We Witnessing the End of the Liberal Trading Order?," Economics, Law, and Institutions in Asia Pacific, in: Junji Nakagawa & Taro Hamada & Yoshimichi Ishikawa (ed.), Geopolitical Risks and Geoeconomics in International Economic Law, chapter 2, pages 11-32, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:eclchp:978-981-95-6996-0_2
    DOI: 10.1007/978-981-95-6996-0_2
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