Restrictive trade policies have been a recurring "temptation" in the recent or recent history of the international community, Especially in times of difficulty. The 29 crisis, world wars, and cold war are historical moments where protectionism has been the dominant economic policy choice (Figure 1). This, however, did not prevent ever greater integration of markets through infrastructure interconnections and the progressive globalization of production processes.

What do the data tell us? That protectionism is "out of fashion". The existing literature is largely in agreement in verifying that, at the time of "hyperglobalization", protectionism is not the best strategy to increase competitiveness, protect the local labor market and revive the economy of troubled countries. The development and diffusion of Information & Communication Technology has in fact determined a diffusion of know-how Transversal to national boundaries, fragmenting production across geographies based on cost-effectiveness and cost-benefit criteria, and more efficient integration of production processes rather than isolation. This process seems unstoppable in the light of the continued technological advancement and integration of countries in the Global Chain Value chain. Moreover, protectionism does not seem to favor the competitiveness of national productions, as restrictive trade measures typically involve an increase in import and export prices.

What should we expect in the coming years, a return to protectionism or more and more integration?

 Photo The Republic