Is MENA a Region? The Scope for Regional Integration

Author/Editor:

Stanley Fischer ; Mohamed A. El-Erian

Publication Date:

April 1, 1996

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:

The paper analyzes the scope and implications of greater economic integration in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). After reviewing whether MENA satisfies the defining characteristics of a region, it documents the low level of regional economic interaction. It argues that gains from greater regional interactions will depend primarily on implementing domestic reform and external policies that, in any case, are needed for the region to benefit from the broader process of globalization of the world economy. It also discusses measures aimed directly at facilitating regional interaction.

Series:

Working Paper No. 1996/030

Subject:

Notes:

The paper analyzes the scope and implications of greater economic integration in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

English

Publication Date:

April 1, 1996

ISBN/ISSN:

9781451980363/1018-5941

Stock No:

WPIEA0301996

Pages:

26

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