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Impacts of RCEP’s trade barrier reductions on China’s agricultural trade: A GTAP simulation

Author

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  • Hangqi Cai
  • Zefang Liao
  • Tianhao Li

Abstract

Against the backdrop of a complex and volatile global trade environment, the entry into force of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) has brought new opportunities for regional economic development. From a China-centric perspective, this paper constructs a two-dimensional analytical framework of tariff reduction and non-tariff barriers (NTB) reduction based on theories of regional economic integration and general equilibrium, and uses the GTAP-Dyn model to systematically examine the impact mechanisms and policy effects of RCEP implementation on agricultural trade among member states. The study finds: ①Ten years after RCEP’s implementation, it significantly promotes economic growth in all countries. Taking China as an example, NTB reduction contributes 68.4% to this growth, revealing the dominant role of non-tariff barriers (institutional coordination) in deep regional integration. ②The agricultural sector exhibits a “dual differentiation” feature: sensitive sectors face adjustment pressures (dairy output −21.55%) while domestic substitution effects emerge (aquatic product imports −88.09%). ③Policy effects show national heterogeneity: ASEAN countries experience low growth but high gains (GDP + 0.75%, terms of trade +8.88%), reflecting a complex game landscape. ④The interaction between tariff and non-tariff measures is asymmetric, with long-term dividends relying more on institutional openness. Based on these findings, China should build a composite open system, implement differentiated agricultural policies, and deepen cooperation pathways.

Suggested Citation

  • Hangqi Cai & Zefang Liao & Tianhao Li, 2025. "Impacts of RCEP’s trade barrier reductions on China’s agricultural trade: A GTAP simulation," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 20(7), pages 1-29, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0328060
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0328060
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Yasmine Kamal & Chahir Zaki, 2018. "How Do Technical Barriers to Trade Affect Exports? Evidence from Egyptian Firm-Level Data," Journal of Economic Integration, Center for Economic Integration, Sejong University, vol. 33(4), pages 659-721.
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    3. Zhou, Zhang-Yue & Wu, Yan-Rui & Si, Wei, 2007. "Evolving Patterns of Agricultural Trade between Australia and China," Australasian Agribusiness Review, University of Melbourne, Department of Agriculture and Food Systems, vol. 15.
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