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  • April 1983 (Revised October 1990)
  • Background Note
  • HBS Case Collection

Textiles and the Multi-Fiber Arrangement

By: David B. Yoffie
  • Format:Print
  • | Pages:16
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Abstract

What happens to an industry with millions of employees that loses its comparative advantage? This note examines this question by looking at the global textile and apparel industry. With the Multi-Fiber Arrangement coming up for renewal in December 1981, the United States, Europe, and the developing world must decide how to divide the international textile market in the 1980s. The debate focuses on who wins and who loses from protectionism, and the advantages and disadvantages of free trade.

Keywords

Trade; Cost vs Benefits; Developing Countries and Economies; Manufacturing Industry; Apparel and Accessories Industry; United States; Europe

Citation

Yoffie, David B. "Textiles and the Multi-Fiber Arrangement." Harvard Business School Background Note 383-164, April 1983. (Revised October 1990.)
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About The Author

David B. Yoffie

Strategy
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