Discrimination, nutritional quality and resilience: regulation in agri-food trade

Soguero Escuer, Jorge ORCID: 0000-0001-6887-5223 (2022). Discrimination, nutritional quality and resilience: regulation in agri-food trade. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

The multilateral trading system is one of the major achievements of international cooperation in modern times. The elimination of tariffs has led countries to specialize in commodities that allow them to exploit their comparative advantages while enabling access to other commodities in external markets. However, the system is not dynamic enough to solve long-standing issues or adapt to those arising as societies evolve. This thesis explores key areas in which action can be taken to achieve both direct economic benefits and indirect benefits through a more equal and more resilient global food system that can promote the nutritional quality of products. The core of the analysis is based on the gravity model of trade, but I also expound the mediation analysis as a method to be considered in the estimation of the indirect effects of trade measures. The results highlight the importance of trade facilitation as a tool to guarantee that developing countries --through capacity building and other practices-- not only comply with regulations and enjoy equal market access, but also as a buffer in response to market crises. I also find that a loose quality control of food crossing the borders contributes to the ongoing obesity pandemic and suppresses the benefits of trade. Further commitments to market transparency, monitoring and evaluation would also contribute to a more resilient agri-food trading system.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):