During the 1980s and early 1990s, the world trading system erected by GATT came under strain as pressures for greater protectionism increased around the world. There are three reasons that caused the increase in pressure. First, the economic success of Japan during the …show more content…
The economy quickly becomes dependent on global markets with free trade. This can lead to economic instability for nations. When one country experiences a recession, those who rely on their exports experience the effects also and hurt multiple areas of their nations. Dumping can also be experienced in free trade. Countries that have a surplus of product will dump the products on world markets at below costs. This will make it difficult for others to compete and severely hurt domestic sellers. This issue will also lead to many industries struggling to keep afloat. They will find it difficult for them to establish themselves in a competitive market. New industries will quickly fail because they cannot enter into the markets due to the lack of the government involvement. These issues can also lead to international monopolies. Free trade can encourage the establishment of multinational corporations. These corporations will acquire a monopoly position and harm local industries and consumers.
My opinion of protectionism and free trade can vary depending on the situation. As a consumer and wanting the best prices possible, I would be in favor of free trade. Free trade allows international companies to compete with one another and provide the best product and price to their consumers. Consumers would prefer that firms stay away from protectionism because prices can easily rise. If products are produced and sold domestically with little or no competition, they can set their own prices. Competition would be best for the consumer. Overall, I think free trade is more ideal than