Summary

Research Report: Examines the effects of Australia removing tariffs on goods that originate in Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

Description

Author: Productivity Commission

This economic research study examines the effects of Australia removing
tariffs on goods that originate in Least Developed Countries (LDCs). In
particular it looked at: the responsiveness of exporters in LDCs to the
proposed removal of tariffs in Australia; the likely effects of the proposal on
developing countries; the effects on Australian manufacturers of goods directly
in competition with imports from LDCs; and Australian consumers and the economy
generally.

The Commission's analysis, (which influenced the Australian
government's decision to remove tariffs on goods from LDCs and East Timor),
suggests that removing tariffs on imports from least developed countries could
significantly boost imports from those countries, primarily clothing, and would
have little impact on prices, incomes or jobs in Australia.

The Productivity Commission is the Australian Government's principal
review and advisory body on microeconomic policy and regulation. The
Commission's role is to contribute to well-informed policy making and to
increase the public understanding of key issues related to raising
Australia's productivity and living standards. The Commission undertakes a
variety of public inquiries and commissioned studies as directed by the
Government.

Removing Tariffs on Goods Originating from Least Developed Countries, Productivity Commission [External link]

Available: Electronic version only

This report was commissioned by AusAID. The findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in the report are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of AusAID or the Australian Government.

To view files marked PDF you need Acrobat Reader, available as a free download (see also the 'About this site' link below).