11. Free Trade as an Anchor for Sustainable Development
- Author:
- Sundjo Fabien and Sunjo Tata
- Publication Date:
- 12-2021
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- The Nkafu Policy Institute
- Abstract:
- Does trade enhance or jeopardize sustainable development? This brief answers this question by debunking the myth that protectionism is a driver of sustainable development. It then outlines the ways in which free trade can lead to sustainable development. This brief finds that free trade is a boon for GDP growth, value chains, and better productivity. It will equally lead countries to specialize and become more competitive. This brief pithily finds that free trade will anchor sustainable development if countries synchronize trade facilitation measures and lower non-tariff barriers such as indiscriminate checks at land borders.
- Topic:
- Development, International Trade and Finance, Sustainable Development Goals, Free Trade, and Sustainability
- Political Geography:
- Africa