Ordre et désordre dans l'échange international. Une revue de littérature

This paper presents a critical survey of the literature on trade openness. In the first part we start by analyzing distributive domestic issues that arise following changing trade patterns. We identify the sources of the problems, and assess the technical and political feasibility of measures aimed at solving them. Then we examine the distribution of trade gains among countries. We highlight situations in which asymmetric productivity gains may lead to conflicts between countries despite an increase in global welfare. The second part shifts the focus on dynamic consequences of trade. We begin by the theoretical arguments on the link between trade openness and growth. We then explore the tentative empirical arguments. Finally, we highlight the importance of transition processes that affects economies experiencing changes in international trade patterns. The paper concludes with a discussion of appropriate policy measures. JEL Codes: F00, F02, F10.