The Evolving Role of Sub-National Actors in International Economic Relations: Lessons from the Canada-European Union CETA

Using the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) as a case study, this paper identifies and analyses evidence of shifting forms of cooperation observable in the design and negotiation of new styled (mega-regional) Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) springing up in the world trade and investment system. The analysis focuses on the different strategies adopted by Canada and the EU to engage their sub-national governments and civil societies in the CETA negotiation/ratification process, and the possible implications for future mega-regional trade agreements.