抄録
In this study we used a computable general equilibrium (CGE) model, incorporating the 2007 social accounting matrix (SAM) data for Syria, to assess the impact of a reduction in tariffs on agricultural products and food industry products in urban and rural households of Syria. The model used was based on Hosoe’s standard CGE model, which has been modified to incorporate the elements of Syrian SAM data. The simulation assumed that the tariffs on agricultural and food industry products were eliminated. To determine the impact of the elimination of tariffs on household income we utilized the Theil index for income inequality.
The results of the study suggest that with the elimination of tariffs on agricultural and food industry products: (a) the welfare of households generally improves; (b) although total household income increases, the income inequality increases but not greatly. Overall, the results suggest that the elimination of tariffs on agricultural and food industry products would be beneficial for Syrian households.
JEL Classification: R13, F17, C68
