PLOW learning resource: Trade.
Abstract
This is one of a number of PLOW learning resources designed to support the professional development of DFID livelihoods advisers. Each learning resource comprises an overview of the subject in a briefing note; key texts; a summary of recent policy debates; points on where to find other resources; and a glossary of key terms used in the briefing note. The impact of trade and trade policy on an individual's livelihood is often determined more by the policies of foreign governments (e.g. OECD agricultural policies, India's export policy, etc.), as well as the influence of regional and international agreements, rather than national trade policies. National trade policies are unlikely to influence the border price. However, other policies in the domestic market (such as taxation policies) will influence the transmission of border prices to consumers and producers. This Briefing Note highlights the relative importance of the policies of domestic and foreign governments (trade and non-trade), how advisers should go about finding the answers to the ever-changing questions relating to trade and where to obtain further guidance. It cannot provide a direct answer to every question on trade because each question needs specific knowledge and answers are almost always context specific. Instead, it emphasises the need for combining local knowledge of the livelihood situation with knowledge of the underlying relationships on how countries trade and the role of markets.
This resource was produced by the Programme of Advisory and Support Services (PASS) in partnership with Livelihoods Connect at the Institute of Development Studies (IDS). PASS was a Resource Centre for Livelihoods Advisers that was funded by DFID and managed by HTSPE Limited. The Resource Centre closed in 2007.
Citation
Turner, L.; Stevens, C. PLOW learning resource: Trade. Programme of Advisory and Support Services (PASS), Hemel Hempstead, UK (2005) 13 pp.