Protectionism in the Central States of Europe

The protective policy of a country is generally molded as nearly as possible to conform to its economic interests. That is, the protective measures afforded the industries of a country should be such that, in the long run, the country as a whole will profit from the protection afforded. This is not always possible as the degree of protection granted to certain economic interests often depends upon the amount of political strength that particular industry controls. Maladjustments are to be found in all tariff schedules and many industries enjoy protection that are not justifiable from an economic view point. To be able to appreciate the tariff adjustments of a country one must know the economic interests that tend to influence the degree of protection afforded. In the following study the countries of Austria, Czechoslovakia and Poland will be dealt with because of the interdependency of their economic interests.