Characterising non-tariff trade policy

Since the 1960s, non-tariff measures (NTMs) have been continuously replacing tariffs as the core element of trade negotiations. In the 21st century, they take centre stage in all EU trade agreements with industrialised and emerging economies. By matching product codes to the rich data of NTM notifications to the World Trade Organization and merging information provided by the Temporary Trade Barriers Database, we provide a valuable open data source for trade policy analysis. Using data for 148 NTM-imposing economies for the period 1995-2019, we describe the evolution of NTMs across countries and sectors, with a special focus on NTMs implemented by the EU. The analysis of our data shows the merits and shortcomings of the WTO’s service in providing transparency of members’ trade policies.