Impact of Trade Policies on Manufacturing Sector Employment

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of trade policies on manufacturing sector employment. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Several studies have investigated the impact of trade policies on manufacturing sector employment, yielding mixed findings. While some research suggests that trade liberalization leads to job losses in manufacturing due to increased competition from imports and outsourcing, others argue that it can stimulate employment by expanding markets and promoting specialization. Additionally, the effects vary across industries and regions, with certain sectors experiencing more significant displacement of workers than others. Factors such as the level of technology adoption, workforce skill levels, and government policies also play crucial roles in shaping the outcome. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Heckscher-ohlin theory, stolper-samuelson theorem and ricardian model of comparative advantage may be use to anchor future studies on assessing the impact of trade policies on manufacturing sector employment. Foster collaboration between academia, industry, and government agencies to facilitate knowledge exchange and evidence-based decision-making. Advocate for the adoption of trade policies that prioritize job creation, wage growth, and labor standards while fostering competitiveness and innovation within the manufacturing sector.