"Razeen Sally argues that international trade policy has lost its way. Trade policy has become disconnected from 21st century business and consumer realities. The World Trade Organization and free trade agreements have outdated negotiating models and yield diminishing returns." "Sally makes a case for the benefits of free trade and provides a penetrating analysis of the dangers confronting the world trading system."--BOOK JACKET.
A blend of travel writing, memoir, history and current affairs that tells the story of Sri Lanka. A perfect read for first-time visitors, Sri Lankans abroad or at home, or anyone looking to deepen their understanding of one of the world's most fascinating and paradoxical countries. Razeen Sally was born to a Sri Lankan Muslim father and a Welsh mother. Just before his teens, a political conflict tore his family apart and he left Sri Lanka, barely going back for thirty years. When he finally returned 'home', he spent much of the next decade crisscrossing the island, trying to understand this paradoxical place. Blessed with nature's bounty and an easy, pleasure-loving people, it was nevertheless scarred by ethnic conflict and the violence of civil war. As a native and a tourist, Sally makes an ideal guide to Sri Lanka's past and present. He won't tell you which restaurant has the best reviews or the price of a hotel room. Instead, he will accompany you like a learned friend, sharing his journeys, pointing out the unmissable gems beyond the obvious spots, and unpacking the nation's culture and history. Insightful, intimate and moving, Return to Sri Lanka is an indispensable book, whether you're already familiar with this spectacular country, or planning your first visit.
The book critiques the current focus on the World Trade Organization and emphasizes the need to shift attention to unilateral trade liberalization, particularly by rapidly growing Asian economies like China. The author argues that large institutions are ineffective in driving trade liberalization, suggesting that the West should eliminate protectionist policies in response. By advocating for a commitment to economic liberalism domestically, the book presents a hopeful view of the global economy's potential through unilateral actions rather than relying on stalled negotiations.
The book explores the relationship between classical liberalism and international economic order, starting with its application to domestic economics. It traces the evolution of classical liberal thought from the Scottish Enlightenment through influential modern theorists such as Knight, Hayek, and Viner. By synthesizing their insights, the author offers a comprehensive overview that connects historical perspectives to contemporary international economic issues, highlighting the relevance of classical liberalism in today's global context.
