Pre and post WTO analysis of south Asian economies: evidence from panel data estimation

By using statistical tools and panel data estimation techniques, this paper examines the impact of WTO (World Trade Organization) on growth, trade and FDI in South Asia. Statistical analysis supports that exports from and imports and FDI inflows to South Asian economies increased significantly after joining the WTO. However, panel data estimation shows that under the WTO regime, the imports and exports contribution to GDP in the region increased, while the role of FDI remained insignificant.