International Trade and Poverty Alleviation

Author/Editor:

Geoffrey J Bannister

Publication Date:

May 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:

Empirical studies suggest that trade reform has a positive effect on employment and income for the poor; however, there are winners and losers. If the transitional costs of trade liberalization fall disproportionately on the poor, trade reform can be designed to mitigate these effects. This includes making reforms as broad based as possible, sequencing and phasing them to allow for adjustment, and implementing social safety nets and other reforms that facilitate adjustment to the new trade policy. In assessing these findings, it should be borne in mind that the links between trade reform and poverty are complex, making systematic empirical investigations difficult.

Series:

Working Paper No. 2001/054

Subject:

Employment Income International trade Labor National accounts Poverty Poverty reduction Trade liberalization Trade policy

English

Publication Date:

May 1, 2001

ISBN/ISSN:

9781451847512/1018-5941

Stock No:

WPIEA0542001

Pages:

33

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