We estimate the impact of international standards certification on the export performance of firms in a developing economy using a unique panel data from Pakistan’s textile and apparel sector. To address endogeneity, we implement a novel…
This study examines the effects of currency depreciation on trade in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) countries: Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia and South Africa. The main research questions address how exchange rate depreciation…
Pakistan’s exports have remained stagnant despite multiple exchange-rate depreciations. Empirical evidence from product-level data between 2003 and 2024 indicates that changes in the real effective exchange rate and energy tariffs have had limited…
This study investigates the transformative potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in reshaping intra-African trade dynamics. Employing a gravity model approach, the research elucidates the complex trade relationships intrinsic…
Innovation is recognized as an important catalyst for growth and competitiveness in the global economy, yet its specific impact on firm performance remains inadequately explored, particularly across different sectors in the context of developing…
Pakistan and China have a deep bilateral partnership based on trust, diplomacy, and shared interests. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) are the main pillars of their economic cooperation. However,…
A persistent problem faced by Pakistan has been the balance of payments deficit. The merchandise exports have been considerably lower than the merchandise imports. Pakistan has not been able to move up the quality ladder which is why the exports…
Pakistan is once again grappling with a severe economic crisis marked by a persistent balance of payments deficit, stagnant growth, inflation, rising unemployment, and deepening poverty. At the heart of this crisis lies a chronic export shortfall.…
In recent years, the debate surrounding free trade versus protectionism has intensified, particularly as industrialized countries face increasing competition from emerging economies. This argument is of particular importance to Pakistan which faces…
Increased market access through trade liberalization can affect the markups, prices, and marginal costs of exporters. Understanding these dynamics is critical for firms and policymakers, particularly as they formulate export strategies. We examine…