WTO
Members have adopted various trade-related measures under their domestic laws
in response to the outbreak of Covid-19. The article discusses ways to exempt
or justify quantitative export restrictions or bans which are in principle
prohibited by Article XI:1 GATT.To this end, it sheds a light on the different
scopes and requirements of Article XI:2 (a), Article XX (b) and ( j) GATT, as well
as of Article XXI (b) (iii) GATT. The article finds that the GATT provides a
solid legal framework for both the exemption and justification for Covid-19
related trade measures; additionally, it raises the question of whether Article
XXI (b) (iii) GATT likewise provides an appropriate legal basis to justify
Covid-19 related trade restrictions.