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Asymmetric Trade Liberalizations and Current Account Dynamics

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  • Alessandro Barattieri

Abstract

In this paper, I show a strong positive correlation between the value-added share of manufacturing in 2000 and current account balances in 2007 for the Euro area countries. I propose asymmetries in the timing of trade liberalizations as a new mechanism affecting the dynamics of the current account. I build intuition using a simple model. Then, I use an international business cycle model to show how the asymmetric dynamics of trade costs in manufacturing and services in 2000-2007 can partially explain the rise in the German surplus. Lastly, I provide broad empirical support for the key predictions of the theory.

Suggested Citation

  • Alessandro Barattieri, 2016. "Asymmetric Trade Liberalizations and Current Account Dynamics," Carlo Alberto Notebooks 447, Collegio Carlo Alberto.
    • Handle: RePEc:cca:wpaper:447
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Maurice Obstfeld & Kenneth Rogoff, 2001. "The Six Major Puzzles in International Macroeconomics: Is There a Common Cause?," NBER Chapters, in: NBER Macroeconomics Annual 2000, Volume 15, pages 339-412, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    2. Ms. Emine Boz & Ms. Nan Li & Hongrui Zhang, 2019. "Effective Trade Costs and the Current Account: An Empirical Analysis," IMF Working Papers 2019/008, International Monetary Fund.
    3. Barattieri, Alessandro, 2014. "Comparative advantage, service trade, and global imbalances," Journal of International Economics, Elsevier, vol. 92(1), pages 1-13.
    4. Alessandria, George & Choi, Horag, 2021. "The dynamics of the U.S. trade balance and real exchange rate: The J curve and trade costs?," Journal of International Economics, Elsevier, vol. 132(C).
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    2. Dix-Carneiro, Rafael & Traiberman, Sharon, 2023. "Globalization, trade imbalances and inequality," Journal of Monetary Economics, Elsevier, vol. 133(C), pages 48-72.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Current Account Dynamics; Relative Trade Liberalization Measures;

    JEL classification:

    • F1 - International Economics - - Trade
    • F32 - International Economics - - International Finance - - - Current Account Adjustment; Short-term Capital Movements
    • F40 - International Economics - - Macroeconomic Aspects of International Trade and Finance - - - General

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