The Synergies and Tension between International Trade Law and Environmental Law in Ethiopia

The relationship between international trade law and environmental law is susceptible to divergent views. Trade liberalization and global competition among producers may result in efficient use of natural resources, or it may on the contrary impede regulatory interventions by the government to protect the environment that may lead to wider circulation of polluting substances. This article examines the linkages (synergies) and tension between international trade law and environmental law in Ethiopia. Relevant international, regional as well as domestic legal instruments have been investigated. Relevant literature has also been analysed. The research identifies that both the linkages (synergies) and contradictions have been incorporated in the international and domestic laws of Ethiopia. Thus, Ethiopia needs to work more on the balance between the promotion of trade and environmental protection in the context of sustainable development.