Austrade economist Explains why trade is a good thing

Austrade media release

19 December 2005

A driving interest in getting the message out about the benefits of trade inspired Austrade’s Chief Economist Tim Harcourt to write a book that makes sense out of the complexities of international trade.

Mr Harcourt will launch his book ‘Beyond Our Shores’ in Sydney today, a collection of essays on Australia and the global economy. Model Kate Fischer, her sister Public Relations Consultant Penny Fischer and their mother Federal Sex Discrimination Commissioner, Pru Goward will help launch the book, along with well known economics commentators, Ross Gittins and Peter Switzer.

Mr Harcourt said the book looks at important topics such as trade liberalization, the information age, external shocks like SARS and exchange rates, emerging markets and the final theme is about how to sell trade.

“As exciting as trade is to me, I know that many Australians don’t always share that passion. But if you look at many prominent events in Australia, there is always a trade angle leaping out of it,” Mr Harcourt said.

“In the book, there are articles about Hollywood and the roles of our most famous exports like Nicole Kidman and Russell Crowe, major sporting events like the Olympics, Rugby World Cup and the Commonwealth Games and culture such as indigenous art and those cultural icons Kath & Kim.

“It also includes essays about Women in Export, a growing sector in Australia and an area in which Pru Goward has been a strong supporter. We also look at trade success stories like NSW-based Casella Wines (whose exports now account for 96 per cent of sales) as well as other up and comers in all states and territories across suburban and regional Australia.

“Economists have consistently shown that trade has not only helped countries like Australia, it has also helped reduce poverty in the developing world. However, it is important that this story be told in classrooms, factories, farms and office across Australia,” he said.

‘Beyond Our Shores’ will soon be made available to economics and business students in high schools and tertiary institutions.

The book is already available on the Internet at: www.austrade.gov.au//economistscorner

For more information contact Austrade on 13 28 78.

Media Contact

Karla Davies, Austrade,
Tel: +61 2 9390 2745