Efeitos da liberdade econômica sobre o comércio mundial de mercadorias.

Abstract

The discussion of the impact of economic freedom on social well-being has been one of the best-known topics in economics. International trade in goods seems to be naturally based on a certain degree of economic freedom. The lack of it is often associated with limited access to foreign products, as well as a reduction in the potential market. International trade is important for countries because it allows everyone to consume a richer and more diversified range of goods and services, serves as a source of income, allows technology transfer, creates opportunities for economies of scale and fosters economic development. Therefore, the present work aims to evaluate the impact of economic freedom on the world trade in goods. To this end, data from world exports of goods from 2005 to 2016 were used, as well as an indicator of economic freedom, in order to verify this relationship through a gravitational model. The results showed that countries with greater trade freedom had better export performance, as they have lower trade barriers and a freer internal environment, stimulating international exchanges. Finally, the importance of trade is highlighted to increase productivity and economic gains, both on the side of exports and imports. The increase in competition for imports and the benefit of using scales to meet external demands can induce the processes of knowledge accumulation, essential for economic growth.