Protektionismin

Protektionismin refers to the policy of restricting imports to protect domestic industries from foreign competition. It is a protectionist approach, in contrast to free trade. Policy instruments include tariffs, import quotas, licensing requirements, and subsidies or domestic content rules. Non-tariff barriers, such as stringent product standards or complex customs procedures, can also limit competition. Proponents argue that protektionismin can shield infant industries, preserve strategic sectors, reduce unemployment, and safeguard national security or balance-of-payments stability. It may also give governments leverage in negotiations and allow time for domestic adaptation to global markets.

However, protectionism can reduce economic welfare by raising prices for consumers, limiting choices, and decreasing efficiency due to reduced competition. It can provoke retaliation, leading to trade wars that lower overall trade and economic growth. The net effects depend on country size, industry structure, and the presence of domestic alternatives. In practice, protectionist measures have varied over time and across countries, from high tariffs in the interwar period to liberalization in the postwar era and ongoing debates about selective protection for strategic sectors.

Historically, protectionism has been associated with mercantilist policies and barriers that impeded cross-border exchange. In the late 20th century, institutions such as the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade and later the World Trade Organization promoted tariff reductions and dispute settlement, although many nations maintain selective protections for agriculture, cultural industries, or national security.

Today, protektionismin remains a persistent issue in trade policy, often invoked during economic downturns or amid concerns about outsourcing, supply chains, and strategic industries. The balance between safeguarding domestic interests and maintaining open markets continues to shape policy debates.