Economic nationalism is a positive way forward
It is time for a policy imperative focused on reinforcing the strength and competitiveness of the local economy, while taking into account the global market place
Nationalism has become a swearword both historically and contemporarily. Consider Donald Trump and his many bids to “make America great again”, or Brexit and anti-immigration policies. Nationalism has been seen as an obstacle to international trade, “free markets” and economic growth. What of economic nationalism? Does it and should it be met with the same level of disdain? Economist Richard Pryke defines economic nationalism as a policy framework that aims to “create, bolster and protect national economies in the context of world markets”. Protectionism, on the other hand, focuses on the protection of domestic industry through taxation and tariffs. The distance between the two, however fine, is material and is what should leave room for a constructive engagement on a cautious case in favour of economic nationalism. The balance of payments details the value of payments in and out of the country and is largely made of trade flows and remittances, capital flows and financial reserves....
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