The International Trade Unit undertakes in-depth studies of how Pakistan’s international trade, especially exports, can be geared to take maximum advantage of increased globalization, and what trade policies will best suit Pakistan’s interests. The Unit was formed and began its work in mid-August, 2004.
Some of the specific topics and questions being studied include: What is the potential for expanding Pakistan’s exports through greater diversification of markets and products? What is the scope for and possible impact on Pakistan of increasing trade with neigbouring countries, such as India and China? How have costs of production, productivity, and profitability evolved over time in various sub-sectors in manufacturing, and should Pakistan try to diversify its exports away from such a heavy reliance on textile products. What will be the impact on Pakistan of the end of textile quotas in 2005 for all WTO countries? Does this represent an opportunity or a threat for Pakistan? The Unit’s research efforts should help contribute toward a comprehensive strategy for exports, and for the international front more broadly, that can maximize long-run growth and per capita incomes, without sacrificing the goal of achieving big gains in poverty reduction. |
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