The paper
This paper examines how EU voluntary product standards affect the variety of textiles, clothing, and footwear imported from trading partners. It focuses on whether harmonization with international standards changes the market-access challenge for developing countries.
Research findings
- More EU standards are associated with lower export variety from low-income countries, while a larger internationally harmonized share is associated with greater variety.
- The relationship varies with exporters’ income levels, with poorer countries more sensitive to the costs of adapting to foreign standards.
Policy takeaways
- Use internationally harmonized standards as a complement to tariff preferences and export-diversification support.
- Consider voluntary standards as well as mandatory rules when assessing market-access barriers.