The dramatic collapse in world trade in 2009 is, this report shows, mainly due to: the drop in demand for highly traded products; the drying up of trade finance; and the vertically integrated nature of global supply chains. Contrary to expectations, protectionist measures were relatively muted and...

Populations in OECD and emerging economies are ageing rapidly, which will have significant macroeconomic impacts, including on public expenditures and tax revenues. The rules and practices that govern fiscal relations among different levels of government, such as their responsibilities for...

Every year, up to US$45 billion are transferred from public budgets to manufacturing industry through support programmes in OECD countries. It is essential to perceive the significance of such support if we are to understand the role it plays in structural adjustment strategies and the...