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IMF
Staff Papers Logo    March 1999
Volume 46, Number 1
 
Exchange and Capital Controls as Barriers to Trade
By Natalia T. Tamirisa

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Abstract: This paper considers the effect of exchange and capital controls on trade in the gravity-equation framework, in which bilateral exports depend on the distance between countries, the countries' size and wealth, tariff barriers, and exchange and capital controls. The extent of exchange and capital controls is measured by unique indices. In view of the degree to which countries have liberalized their exchange systems, controls on current payments and transfers are found to be a minor impediment to trade, while capital controls significantly reduce exports into developing and transition economies. Thus, further capital account liberalization could significantly foster trade. [JEL F13, F31]

© 1999 International Monetary Fund