Estimating ad-valorem equivalent of non-tariff barriers and the total protection in Colombia
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ABSTRACT
This document uses recent methodological developments to estimate the ad-valorem equivalent of non-tariff barriers in Colombia at 10-digit Nandina disaggregation level. At this same level of disaggregation, total protection, the trade restrictiveness index (TRI) and the overall trade restrictiveness index (OTRI) are estimated. The results show a high degree of substitutability between tariff and non-tariff barriers in Colombia, the latter being a regulation instrument widely used in different economic sectors. There is also evidence of a high and growing level of protectionism in Colombia, being the agriculture the highest trade restrictive sector. Contrary to expectations, there does not seem to be an economic opening to international markets.
