Questions and answers about
the economy.

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What are the big economic issues in Australia’s federal election?

On 3 May, Australia’s voters choose their next government. Both the incumbent Labor Party and the Liberal-National Coalition are campaigning on promises to tackle the cost of living and issues around energy, housing and immigration. But the dominant theme is how to respond to the Trump trade war.

Audio recordings

Energy & climate change

How could green energy policy boost Mexico’s economy? 

Countries that have access to vast amounts of renewable energy – such as Mexico – may be able attract companies to relocate by offering cheaper and cleaner production. But for such ‘powershoring’ to succeed, there needs to be competitive renewable energy capacity and strong trade links.

DATA HUB

Mapping protectionism: average tariffs worldwide

President Trump has declared April 2nd "Liberation Day in America". This map shows average tariff rates at the start of the trade war that is reshaping global trade.

Click on the map to read Brian Varian on what economic history can tell us about protectionism's impact on the British economy

Data stories

What is happening to UK prices?

UK inflation has fallen more than expected, with lower costs for petrol offsetting rises in clothes prices. But this month’s data pre-date sharp increases in other regulated bills, including energy, water and council tax. Also looming are the effects of tariff wars and mounting economic uncertainty.

Productivity & growth

The UK’s new industrial strategy: what can we learn from past policies?

A new report from the Competition and Markets Authority examines the record of industrial policies in the UK and across a range of comparator countries, their effectiveness in boosting productivity, and the characteristics of the UK sectors most likely to drive future economic growth.

Trade & supply chains

Globalisation and backlash: how has world trade evolved over 300 years?

Over the past three centuries, economic nationalism has ebbed and flowed: from the mercantile system that Adam Smith described in 1776 through waves of globalisation, backlash and battles for supremacy.

Energy & climate change

How does fast fashion affect the environment? 

The fast fashion industry is characterised by both overproduction and overconsumption. The sector is harmful to the environment, requiring enormous quantities of natural resources and creating substantial waste. Policy-makers could promote a more circular economy to reduce the damage.

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