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Measuring the usage of preferential tariffs in the world

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  • Hayakawa, Kazunobu
  • Kimura, Fukunari
  • Laksanapanyakul, Nuttawut

Abstract

The preference utilization ratio, i.e., the share of imports under preferential tariff schemes out of total imports, has been a popular indicator for measuring the usage of preferential tariffs vis-à-vis tariffs on a most-favored-nation basis. A crucial shortcoming of this measure is the data requirements, particularly for import value data classified by tariff schemes, which are not available in most countries. This study proposes an alternative measure for preferential tariff utilization, termed the "tariff exemption ratio." This measure offers the unique advantage of needing only publicly available data, such as those provided by the World Development Indicators, for its computations. We can thus calculate this measure for most countries for an international comparison. Our finding is that tariff exemption ratios differ widely across countries, with a global average of approximately 50%.

Suggested Citation

  • Hayakawa, Kazunobu & Kimura, Fukunari & Laksanapanyakul, Nuttawut, 2016. "Measuring the usage of preferential tariffs in the world," IDE Discussion Papers 595, Institute of Developing Economies, Japan External Trade Organization(JETRO).
  • Handle: RePEc:jet:dpaper:dpaper595
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Richard Pomfret, 2021. "‘Regionalism’ and the global trade system," The World Economy, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 44(9), pages 2496-2514, September.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Tariff; International trade; International agreements; Preferential trade agreements; General system of preferences; Utilization of preferential arrangements; Tariff revenues;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • F15 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Economic Integration
    • F53 - International Economics - - International Relations, National Security, and International Political Economy - - - International Agreements and Observance; International Organizations

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