1960s Quote by Ha-Joon Chang
“As South Korea shows, active participation in international trade does not require free trade. Indeed, had South Korea pursued free trade and not promoted infant industries, it would not have become a major trading nation. It would still be exporting raw materials (e.g., tungsten ore, fish, seaweed) or low-technology, low-price products (e.g., textiles, garments, wigs made with human hair) that used to be its main export items in the 1960s.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Kicking Away the Ladder by Ha‑Joon Chang, 2002
South Korea’s success shows strategic protectionism can nurture industries before opening markets, contradicting pure free‑trade doctrine.
In simple terms: Protectionist policies helped Korea develop before liberalizing trade.
Key Takeaway
Use targeted support before full market opening.
Themes
economics
development
trade policy
Mood
analytical
pragmatic
Type
analysis
policy
When to use this quote
- emerging economies
- policy design
- government intervention
- global trade
Key Concepts
industrial strategy
comparative advantage
Questions to Reflect On
- What industries need temporary protection?
- How to balance protection and competition?
A Different Perspective
Over‑protection can lead to inefficiency and stagnation.
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