Developing a product-level prioritization method for bilateral trade negotiations

Abstract

The SACU and US trade relationship continues to be dominated by AGOA. Given the lingering uncertainty surrounding its renewal post-2025, this article recommends the SACU to be proactive and reengage the US in the negotiation of a reciprocal trade agreement that builds on AGOA and deepens the parties’ trade relationships. However, trade negotiation processes can be challenging. The literature on product-level prioritization specifically designed to inform trade negotiations is also sparse. Hence, this article proposes a product-level prioritization method, suggested for implementation in the preparation phase of the bilateral trade negotiation process. The method can be applied in any bilateral trade negotiation setting.