MPIA AS A TOOL TO ENSURE THE STABILITY OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE LAW IN AN ERA OF ECONOMIC UNCERTAINTY

Zhao Runfeng

The article analyzes the role of the Multilateral Temporary Appellate Arbitration System (MPIA), established in 2020, as a key tool for ensuring the stability of international trade law in a crisis of the Appellate Body (AO) of the World Trade Organization (WTO). The crisis that began in 2019 due to the US blocking the appointment of new arbitrators has paralyzed AO, threatening the multilateral trading system (MTS) and increasing economic uncertainty. Based on WTO regulations, scientific publications, and case analysis (DS611, DS591), the institutional features of the MPIA are considered, including its functioning based on article 25 of the DSU, inclusivity, and a pool of 10 arbitrators. The effectiveness of the MPIA in maintaining a two-stage dispute resolution system, ensuring binding decisions and preventing the escalation of trade conflicts is assessed. Particular attention is paid to the limitations of MPIA, such as the lack of participation of large economies (USA, India), the temporary nature of the system and the dependence on the cooperation of the parties. The importance of MPIA is emphasized in the context of geopolitical and economic challenges, including protectionism and the growth of regional trade agreements. For Russia, participation in the MPIA is seen as a strategic opportunity to protect interests in the face of sanctions and global trade challenges. MPIA's success is related to its ability to attract new participants and adapt to the dynamics of global trade, which makes it not only a technical but also a political tool for maintaining the stability of MTS.

Keywords:MPIA, WTO, appellate body, dispute settlement, multilateral trading system, economic uncertainty, international trade law