Tariff Escalation and Preferences in International Fish Production and Trade

Abstract

This paper reviews recent literature on the effects of tariff liberalisation on wild caught fish product production structures, development outcomes, and fish stocks. Using the case of canned tuna, the report shows that tariff regimes clearly influence the location of production and processing activities, thereby shaping the international division of labour. While trade measures clearly have significant implications for developing countries, the report finds that the impact of trade preferences and tariff liberalisation cannot be adequately understood without taking into consideration the particular characteristics and circumstances of individual countries. Therefore, one-size-fits-all policy prescriptions based on generalised assumptions about the functioning of the world economy will not provide an adequate policy framework. The author puts forward several recommendations concerning measures that could be taken to help developing countries adapt to changes in competitiveness in the evolving trade environment.