Import Canalisation

As an instrument of state intervention in international trade that has been used for over three decades, channelling or canalizing imports has played an important role in many countries' economies. Developing countries, in particular, faced with serious problems regarding balance of payment, have resorted to import canalization on a large scale. Until now there has been no methodological and analytical study of this economic strategy. In this pioneering study, Dilip Das discusses the pros and cons of import canalization using India as a case study. He finds that given the form this strategy has taken in most developing countries, its costs far outweigh its returns. Citing inefficiency, delayed decision making, and bureaucratic wrangling as causes for higher prices, Das decribes many of the frailties associated with monopolistic behavior. He concludes by suggesting partial or voluntary canalization as feasible alternatives if this strategy is to function efficiently. With its incisive analysis of questions relating to the objectives, mode of operation, efficiency, and consequences of import canalization for domestic industry, this book is an important contribution to the debate concerning the trade policy regimes of developing countries in general.Das, Dilip K. is the author of 'Import Canalisation' with ISBN 9780803994096 and ISBN 0803994095.