Trade and Poverty Reduction in the Asia-Pacific Region: Case Studies and lessons from low-income communities

This book explores the complex relationship between international trade and poverty reduction through a combination of research papers and contemporary case studies. Written mainly by developing-country authors in consultation with local businesses and communities, the case studies contribute to our understanding of the ways in which low-income communities are dealing with trade as a practical challenge, especially in the Asia-Pacific region where approximately two-thirds of the world’s poor live. While making it clear that there is no ‘one size fits all’ formula, the research and stories highlight a number of necessary preconditions, such as political commitment and cooperation at all levels, if trade is to successfully reduce poverty. Openness to trade, serious commitment to domestic reform, trade-related capacity building, a robust and responsible private sector and access to the markets of developed countries are all identified as powerful tools for building trade-related sustainable development.

• Thematic chapters provide readers with conceptual trade and development framework for analysing specific cases
• Diverse, in-depth cases provide readers with examples of real-world complexity and encourage the development of analytical skills
• Perspectives from ‘grass roots’ communities are user-friendly case studies for teaching purposes and ease understanding by students