Commodity Policies

First published in 1987, Commodity Policies deals with the main issues in worldwide trade in primary commodities. These goods matter greatly to many developing countries, where exports of just one or two primary commodities are often the only source of national income. Above all, those countries need stability in commodity trade to secure their future development.

The book looks at patterns of trade, shifts in demand and the effects of price fluctuations in spot and futures markets. It analyses the theories offered to explain the problems and reviews research by the many international organisations concerned with them.

It also examines the international agreements and bodies created to stabilise trade, and assesses how well those agreements and organisations have performed.