A compendium on international trade in Lesotho

Volume editor
Denis Nfor Yuni
Volume editor
Tsotang Tsietsi

Synopsis

International trade is a topic that is important for all states, regardless of their level of development. Trade can directly increase foreign exchange earnings and allow consumers to access desired foreign goods and services. Indirectly, trade potentially increases employment and improves technology (via spillover effects). It ultimately improves economic growth and enhances living standards. Conversely, trade can have adverse effects, especially when imports are high. Examples are jobs being outsourced, increased economic dependence, de-industrialisation in importing countries, as well as exposure to negative external shocks. Therefore, it is crucial to critically examine the multifaceted ways that international trade manifests in any economy. On this premise, this compendium interrogates various aspects of international trade in the context of Lesotho.

Although Lesotho is a small country, it is strategically located relative to South Africa, which gives it several trade advantages. The country is willing to engage in international trade and investment deals, and it is a member of several significant trade agreements that facilitate its integration into regional and global markets. Examples of these are the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Free Trade Area, and the Tripartite Free Trade Area, which combines the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), SADC and the East African Community.

This compendium highlights the implications of international trade on Lesotho’s historical, legal, political, social, geographical, and economic realities. Understanding these dimensions is crucial for scholars, policymakers, investors and international business firms, yet published research and data on Lesotho’s international trade remain very scarce. This book fills that gap and will also resonate with audiences interested in comparable economies beyond Lesotho’s borders.

Chapters

  • Foreword
    Motlamelle Kapa
  • Part 1: Introduction – Chapter 1
    An overview of the context of international trade in Lesotho
    Denis Nfor Yuni, Tsotang Tsietsi
  • Part 2: The history and institutional frameworks of international trade in Lesotho – Chapter 2
    A history of international trade in Lesotho
    Noah Echa Attah, Sean Maliehe
  • Part 2: The history and institutional frameworks of international trade in Lesotho – Chapter 3
    The legal and institutional frameworks of international trade in Lesotho
    Tsotang Tsietsi, Letzadzo Kometsi
  • Part 2: The history and institutional frameworks of international trade in Lesotho – Chapter 4
    The political dynamics of international trade in Lesotho
    Carol Chi Ngang
  • Part 3: The socio-economic and demographic contexts of international trade in Lesotho – Chapter 5
    Socio-cultural and religious contexts of international trade in Lesotho
    Josphine Hapazari
  • Part 3: The socio-economic and demographic contexts of international trade in Lesotho – Chapter 6
    The macroeconomic environment of international trade in Lesotho
    Denis Nfor Yuni
  • Part 3: The socio-economic and demographic contexts of international trade in Lesotho – Chapter 7
    Human capital development and international trade in Lesotho
    Ojo Johnson Adelakun, Joalane Tota
  • Part 3: The socio-economic and demographic contexts of international trade in Lesotho – Chapter 8
    Demographic context of international trade in Lesotho
    Tšoamathe ‘Maseribane, Nthatisi Leseba, Mapitso Lebuso
  • Part 4: Sectoral perspectives of international trade in Lesotho – Chapter 9
    Agricultural sector and international trade in Lesotho
    Brian Muroyiwa, Puleng Letuma, Malefetsane Ratsoane
  • Part 4: Sectoral perspectives of international trade in Lesotho – Chapter 10
    The manufacturing sector and its implications for international trade in Lesotho
    Seipati Gertrude Chesetsi, Lefa Augustinus Matsoai, Nthabiseng Letlala, Mofihli Ntsasa
  • Part 4: Sectoral perspectives of international trade in Lesotho – Chapter 11
    Lesotho services sector and implications for international trade
    Mamello Amelia Nchake
  • Part 5: Conclusion – Chapter 12
    Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats analysis for international trade in Lesotho
    Tseko Nyesemane, Marcel Ratsiu

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170mm x 244mm