7.2.3

Arguments for Protectionism

Test yourself

Arguments for Protectionism

Different industries and workers within the same country will be affected differently by protectionism.

Illustrative background for Protect domestic jobsIllustrative background for Protect domestic jobs ?? "content

Protect domestic jobs

  • Protectionism can protect jobs, particularly those in jobs with low wages.
  • Protectionism may help domestic companies to make higher profits, which could be passed on to workers with positive multiplier effects.
Illustrative background for Protect infant industriesIllustrative background for Protect infant industries ?? "content

Protect infant industries

  • Infant industries are new industries that are developing.
  • Blocking imports for a limited time has historically helped countries' own industries to develop. It has helped them in the long-run by allowing them to first achieve economies of scale and become competitive.
Illustrative background for Anti-dumping lawsIllustrative background for Anti-dumping laws ?? "content

Anti-dumping laws

  • Anti-dumping laws block imports that are sold below the cost of production by imposing tariffs that increase the price of these imports to reflect their cost of production.
    • Dumping can be used to drive firms out the market.
Illustrative background for Environmental concernsIllustrative background for Environmental concerns ?? "content

Environmental concerns

  • The consequences of globalisation for the environment are not good.
  • Economic activity more generally can pose environmental dangers.
  • Large multinational corporations often shift their production to lower income countries to take advantage of lower environmental protection standards.

Arguments for Protectionism (Cont.)

Different industries and workers within the same country will be affected differently by protectionism.

Illustrative background for Reduced dependence on importsIllustrative background for Reduced dependence on imports ?? "content

Reduced dependence on imports

  • Protectionism could help to rebalance an economy from imports to domestic consumption – which will increase domestic employment.
Illustrative background for Reduces trade deficitIllustrative background for Reduces trade deficit ?? "content

Reduces trade deficit

  • Because protectionism will involve lowering imports (M), it will lower a trade deficit, which boosts aggregate demand (AD).
    • This is assuming there is no retaliation.
Illustrative background for Raises tax revenueIllustrative background for Raises tax revenue ?? "content

Raises tax revenue

  • Protectionism raises government revenue from tariffs. This is especially relevant for LDCs who may have a weak tax base otherwise.

Jump to other topics

1Introduction to Markets

2Market Failure

3The UK Macroeconomy

4The UK Economy - Policies

5Business Behaviour

6Market Structures

7A Global Perspective

8Finance & Inequality

9Examples of Global Policy

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