Economic and Environmental Benefits of Eliminating Log Export Bans—The Case of Costa Rica

Author/Editor:

Nalin M. Kishor ; Muthukumara Mani ; Luis F. Constantino

Publication Date:

October 1, 2001

Electronic Access:

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Disclaimer: This Working Paper should not be reported as representing the views of the IMF.The views expressed in this Working Paper are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent those of the IMF or IMF policy. Working Papers describe research in progress by the author(s) and are published to elicit comments and to further debate

Summary:

An increasing number of tropical timber producing nations have enacted bans on export of logs. Proponents argue that a log export ban is a second-best policy tool for addressing environmental externalities; it also creates more jobs and improves scale efficiencies domestically. Theoretical arguments suggest that log export bans are largely incapable of achieving their objectives. However, little quantitative evidence exists. The authors maintain that eliminating log export bans in Costa Rica could generate economic gains as high as $14 million annually in addition to the environmental benefits.

Series:

Working Paper No. 2001/153

Subject:

English

Publication Date:

October 1, 2001

ISBN/ISSN:

9781451857153/1018-5941

Stock No:

WPIEA1532001

Pages:

17

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