This paper investigates the impact of economic and commercial diplomacy on the geography of international trade. We replicate a recent study by Rose (2007) extending the analysis to include the year 2006 and 63 importing and exporting countries. Using a gravity model we are able to demonstrate that diplomatic representation via embassies and consulates is not a relevant trade enhancing factor for trade within the OECD. In contrast diplomatic representation is significant in bilateral trade relationships of developing countries as it both facilitates imports and stimulates exports. We discuss some implications of our findings for developing countries especially in view of South--South trade.

, , ,
, , , ,
Erasmus University Rotterdam
hdl.handle.net/1765/18715
ISS Working Papers - General Series
ISS Working Paper Series / General Series
International Institute of Social Studies of Erasmus University (ISS)

Yakop, M., & van Bergeijk, P. (2009). The weight of economic and commercial diplomacy. ISS Working Paper Series / General Series (Vol. 478, pp. 1–31). Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/1765/18715