Q3. Which is a more restrictive trade barrier—an import tariff
or an equivalent import quota? Why did the U.S. government in 1982
provide import quotas as an aid to domestic sugar producers?
1. Given that tariffs and quotas cost consumers and that they
are grossly inefficient means for creating or preserving jobs, why
do citizens allow these policies to exist?
2. Which industries are more heavily protected in the United
States and Japan? Are high-income or low-income nations more
affected by American and Japanese trade barriers? Explain.
Small country quota
Suppose Canada places a quota on the import of steel, which
reduces its steel imports, but does not stop them completely.
a) Draw a diagram to illustrate the change in Canada’s steel
market, moving from free trade to the quota.
b) Based on your diagram, compare Canada’s welfare if it
distributes the quota by auction with Canadian welfare if the quote
is distributed by a VER.
Small country quota
Suppose Canada places a quota on the import of steel, which
reduces its steel imports but does not stop them completely.
a) Draw a diagram to illustrate the change in Canada’s steel
market, moving from free trade to the quota.
b) Based on your diagram, compare Canada’s welfare if it
distributes the quota by auction with Canadian welfare if the quote
is distributed by a VER.