In this paper we study the optimal import policy in an oligopolistic market with a given number of quantity-setting firms. In the absence of fixed costs, we show that if the policy instrument is an import quota, the optimal policy is either free trade or autarky, while if the instrument is a tariff the optimal policy is neither free trade nor autarky. In the case of fixed costs, we show that co...

Hub-and-Spoke Free Trade Areas* This paper analyzes how the sequential formation of free trade areas affects the volume of trade between member countries. In a three--country, three-good model, if two countries have a free trade area, and both sign a similar agreement with the third, trade between the two decreases, and welfare rises in both. However, if only one of them signs an FTA with the t...

this paper is analysing the role of economic reforms on the labour market in iranian industry in economic reform period (1990-2005), and in turn, it is comparing it with closed economic period (1979-1989). in order to do the above comparative analysis, the manufacturing industry has been categorized based on hecksher-ohlin and gause methodology. accordingly, we have some industrial groups, incl...

We investigate a mechanism whereby a group of nations forming a free trade area simultaneously can efficiently satisfy industrialization targets. The mechanism does not rely on cross-country transfers, and it is efficient for each member country individually even if other members of the free trade area do not implement the efficient policy. It allows each member country to gain from participati...

Recent literature has argued that, contrary to the results of a seminal paper by Rose (2004), WTO membership does promote bilateral trade, at least for developed economies and if membership includes non-formal compliance. We review the literature in order to identify open issues. We then develop the simplest possible “corner-solutions" version of the gravity model which serves as a framework to...

We study the impact of transnational terrorism diffusion on security and trade. We set a simple theoretical model predicting that the closer a country to a source of terrorism, the higher the negative spillovers on its trade. The idea is that security measures, which impede trade, are directed both against the source country of terror and its neighbor countries where terrorism may diffuse. In c...

Financial sector is one of the most influential sectors in economic activities. Empirical and theoretical studies conducted in recent years have also confirmed the significant role of financial institutions in economic growth. Additionally, trade and financial liberalization policies have been particular concerned with strategic policies in developed and developing countries. According to dynam...

In more recent years, it has become increasingly recognized that R&D (research and development) is a key driver of economic growth, a source of innovation and change, and as such stimulates improvements in productivity and economic competitiveness. It is closely associated with knowledge and flexibility, two factors that have gained new significance as a source of competitiveness in an increasi...

â â â  â  â  abstract â  this paper aims to identify key challenges facing iran and south korea in their bilateral trade and investment relations. in particular, it is concerned with the policy implications which can be useful for policy makers and business people of both countries. for this purpose, we review and analyze the recent developments of the iranian economy and bilateral trade and in...

Abstract On 6 December 2006, Australia and Korea announced a joint study on a possible Australia-Korea free trade agreement (AKFTA) to promote trade and economic relations between the two countries. The paper provides empirical evidence on the possible gains and their transmission mechanism from this agreement. Significantly, it uses a new economic policy modelling approach, the endogenous grav...