In a compelling retrospective, the ISET Policy Institute held a policy roundtable showcasing their recent research on 'What Georgia Could Gain from Free Trade Agreements with the USA, South Korea, and India.' The event took place on January 26, at the Radisson Blu Iveria Hotel.
During the session, experts Giorgi Papava from ISET/Georgia, David Tarr from the USA, and Veronika Movchan from Ukraine delved into the profound findings of the institute's research. The focus was on a sophisticated Computable General Equilibrium Model developed specifically for Georgia. This model formed the basis for evaluating the potential impact of new Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the USA, India, and South Korea.
The research extended beyond the conventional analysis of tariff elimination, incorporating deep integration elements anticipated in the potential FTAs. These elements included a reduction in time-related trade costs, a decrease in non-tariff barriers on goods, and a lowering of barriers on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and cross-border business services.
This event not only provided valuable insights into the potential benefits of free trade agreements but also served as a platform for an engaging open discussion among participants. The ISET Policy Institute continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the economic landscape through rigorous research and informed policy discussions.