The author considers the policy options of the West Bank and Gaza with respect to trade and the export of labor services. He concludes that: 1) Nondiscriminatory trade policy is unambiguously superior to a free trade agreement with Israel; 2) The West Bank and Gaza should pursue a nondiscriminatory trade policy with all its neighbors, but only on the condition that the trade policy be open, transparent, and enforced by a credible lock-in mechanism. Otherwise, a customs union with Israel may be preferable; 3) The Palestinian Authority should establish a system of fee-based permits for Palestinians working in Israel; and 4) The Palestinian Authority should consider allowing Jordanians access to the West Bank and Gaza labor market.
Comments
(Leave your comments here about this item.)