Quantitative Methods for Trade-barrier Analysis

Providing an evaluation of procedures for quantifying the effects of non-tariff barriers, this book examines the theoretical bases for alternative procedures for measuring NTBs effects, and also presents a critical survey of previous studies that utilized these empirical studies.

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A major problem that has plagued international efforts to liberalize nontariff trade barriers (NTBs) is the lack of transparency associated with these measureas. Unlike tariffs, nominal equivalents of NTBs are often very difficult to derive while there are normally major problems in trying to approximate their trade, welfare, employment and other economic effects. This lack of information on the effects (costs) of nontariff barriers and the extent of their application has posed major difficulties for both research personnel and individuals participating in multilateral trade negotiations such as the Uruguay Round. This book rectifys these problems by providing a comprehensive evaluation of procedures for quantifying the effects of nontariff barriers. The book examines the theoretical bases for a alternative procedure for measuring NTBs effects and also presents a comprehensive critical survey of previous studies that utilized these empirical procedures. By employing newly constructed inventories of nontariff barriers detailed empirical evidence on the use of nontariff barriers in developed and developing countries is derived.
As such, the book should be of major interest to all students, researchers, or individuals in national or international organizations who are concerned with liberalization efforts or basic research on the effects of nontariff barriers.