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Open Regionalism in a World of Continental Trade Blocs

Author

Listed:
  • Shang-Jin Wei

    (International Monetary Fund)

  • Jeffrey A. Frankel

    (International Monetary Fund)

Abstract

Continental trade blocs are emerging in many parts of the world almost in tandem. If trade blocs are required to satisfy the McMillan criterion of not lowering their trade volume with outside countries, they have to engage in a dramatic reduction of trade barriers against nonmember countries. That may not be politically feasible. On the other hand, in a world of simultaneous continental trade blocs, an open regionalism in which trade blocs undertake relatively modest external liberalization can usually produce Pareto improvement.

Suggested Citation

  • Shang-Jin Wei & Jeffrey A. Frankel, 1998. "Open Regionalism in a World of Continental Trade Blocs," IMF Staff Papers, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 45(3), pages 440-453, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:imfstp:v:45:y:1998:i:3:p:440-453
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    • F15 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Economic Integration

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