Politics and economic policy reform: Trade liberalization in sub‐Saharan Africa

Abstract

Abstract Trade policy reform, in the form of liberalization or removal of restrictions on trade, has been a predominant feature of economic policy reforms undertaken, to various degrees, by numerous sub‐Saharan African (SSA) countries since 1980. This paper addresses the experiences of a range of SSA countries with trade liberalization. The results of recent cross‐country studies are summarized, concentrating on the elements of trade liberalization and the extent of reform, and the economic arguments reviewed. The paper then goes on to address why so few effective reforms have been implemented, with specific attention to the political and administrative capacities that motivate economic policy reform and constrain implementation. The paper concludes with recommendations on the appropriate timing and sequencing of liberalization to account for economic, political and administrative considerations.

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