Abstract
This paper examines the effects on welfare and on patterns of trade of a reduction in costs of trading, such as might be the result of newly formed networks among residents of different countries with common culture or other ties. It argues that such a reduction in trade costs, even when it applies only to a particular bilateral trade route and may cause imports to be diverted from one source to another, must in the absence of distortions be welfare improving in the aggregate. On the other hand, such a change can indeed alter trade patterns distinctly, and they may also lower the welfare of particular countries. Examples are provided in which falling trade costs cause reversals of a country’s pattern of trade, and in which a country that becomes part of a trade-cost-reducing network that alters its trade loses as a result.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
