This paper examines the role of structural indicators in the process of multilateral surveillance of structural policies. An analytical framework is suggested that is based on welfare economics and which focuses on efficiency considerations. Potential indicators are examined for six areas --...

The dramatic collapse in world trade in 2009 is, this report shows, mainly due to: the drop in demand for highly traded products; the drying up of trade finance; and the vertically integrated nature of global supply chains. Contrary to expectations, protectionist measures were relatively muted and...

Sustainable development involves linking the economic, social and environmental objectives of societies in a balanced way. It stresses the importance of taking a broader view of what human welfare entails, of using a long-term perspective about the consequences of today's activities, and of...

Recent years have witnessed growing concern over the controversial issue of trade and labour standards. In a context of intensified international competition, alleged cases of child labour exploitation or of denial of rights to freedom of association and collective bargaining in some developing...

This report, published by the OECD's International Futures Program in cooperation with the Bob Hawke Prime Ministerial Center in Australia, aims to stimulate informed debate about the main integration issues facing the Asia-Pacific region in the decades ahead. It examines such issues as how the...

This annual report, covering events in 1994, is a concise factual compendium of cross-country trade and trade-related developments. It chronicles intense activity in the world trading system: the historic signing of the Final Act of the Uruguay Round; preparations for the entry into force of the...

International competition, accelerating technological change and shifting societal concerns are important drivers of structural change, both within and across firms, industries and regions. As well as bringing undoubted opportunities, structural adjustment raises acute challenges. This must be...