Economic diplomacy, trade and developing countries

This article analyses the impact of economic diplomacy on the geography of international trade for the year 2006 and 63 importing and exporting countries. We demonstrate that diplomatic representation via embassies and consulates is not a relevant trade-enhancing factor for trade within the OECD, but that it is significant in bilateral trade relationships of developing countries. We discuss implications for developing countries especially in view of South-South trade.