Asia-Pacific Trade and Investment Report 2009
Trade-Led Recovery and Beyond
When the economic crisis hit Asia and the Pacific in the course of 2008, exports and economic growth rates tumbled while unemployment rose sharply and results for 2009 look set to be even worse. The objective of this report is to sensitize policymakers to various trade policy tools which could be used to counter the economic and social impact of the crisis and achieve long-term inclusive and sustainable development. It analyses the role of trade in development, looks at the role of government and business in trade for development, and explores the various modalities of trade policy. In this regard, the report reviews the role of the multilateral trading system and regional trade agreements in enhancing both global and intraregional trade. It discusses the importance of trade facilitation and availability of trade finance in times of crisis and beyond.
