## Trade in the Mashreq: An Empirical Examination

_IMF Working Papers, October 1, 2001_

## Source details

**Canonical URL:** [Trade in the Mashreq: An Empirical Examination](https://www.imf.org/en/publications/wp/issues/2016/12/30/trade-in-the-mashreq-an-empirical-examination-15426)

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## Bibliographic details
- Authors: Rodolphe Blavy
- Published: October 1, 2001
- Series: IMF Working Papers
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.5089/9781451857931.001

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### Summary and main findings
- The paper provides a framework for understanding trade patterns in the Mashreq using an augmented gravity model to compare actual with expected levels of trade.
- Trade barriers, political uncertainty, and over-appreciation of domestic currencies seem to explain low levels of international trade.
- At the intra-regional level, specific trade barriers between Israel and other Mashreq countries reduce further levels of trade.
- Removing Israel from the sample leads to higher actual intra-regional trade than predicted.

### Methodology
- Uses an augmented gravity model to estimate expected trade and compare it with actual trade flows.

### Key policy implications and recommendations
- Trade liberalization would boost trade in the region.
- Correction of currency misalignments would boost trade in the region.
- Reduction of political uncertainty would boost trade in the region.
- Improved trade relations with Israel would boost trade in the region.

### Publication and metadata
- Author: Rodolphe Blavy
- Date: October 1, 2001
- Series: Working Paper No. 2001/163
- Issue: 163
- Volume: 2001
- Pages: 31
- DOI: https://doi.org/10.5089/9781451857931.001
- Stock No: WPIEA1632001
- ISBN: 9781451857931
- ISSN: 1018-5941

*IMF Working Papers — Trade in the Mashreq: An Empirical Examination*

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_Source: https://www.imf.org/en/publications/wp/issues/2016/12/30/trade-in-the-mashreq-an-empirical-examination-15426_