Working Paper: CEPR ID: DP8210
Authors: Bernard Hoekman
Abstract: This paper focuses on developments in the engagement of developing countries in the multilateral trading system in light of the recent re-issue of Robert Hudec?s seminal book, Developing Countries in the GATT Legal System. Starting in the late 1980s, just after Hudec published his book, a major shift occurred in the trade policies of many developing countries. The major drivers of the associated reforms and their consequences for the approaches taken towards participation in the global trade regime are discussed. As a result of both policy and technological changes, some of which could not have been foreseen by Hudec, trade-related policy priorities for developing countries today are different from those that are the primary focus of GATT/WTO disciplines and Hudec?s analysis.
Keywords: developing countries; liberalization; Robert Hudec; trade costs; trade policy; WTO
JEL Codes: F1; F2; F5; L80
Edges that are evidenced by causal inference methods are in orange, and the rest are in light blue.
| Cause | Effect |
|---|---|
| global economic pressures (F69) | liberalization of trade policies (F13) |
| 1980s recession (E65) | liberalization of trade policies (F13) |
| success of export-oriented strategies in East Asia (F14) | liberalization of trade policies (F13) |
| liberalization of trade policies (F13) | increased participation in global trade (F69) |
| liberalization of trade policies (F13) | increased foreign direct investment (F21) |
| WTO accession (F13) | domestic policy reforms (E69) |
| trade facilitation initiatives (F13) | improvements in trade logistics and customs efficiency (F19) |
| improvements in trade logistics and customs efficiency (F19) | enhanced competitiveness (F23) |
| improvements in trade logistics and customs efficiency (F19) | reduced trade costs (F12) |
| reduced trade costs (F12) | economic growth (O49) |