What the study found
The study found that the S-curve pattern was present in only three of the fifteen 2-digit industries examined in trade between Pakistan and Japan. It also found that exchange rate depreciation was not favorable to improving Pakistan's trade balance with Japan.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors conclude that policymakers should look beyond exchange rates when trying to expand a country's trade balance. They suggest focusing on product diversification, innovation, and trade facilitation.
What the researchers tested
The researchers reexamined the S-curve phenomenon at the industry level rather than at the aggregate level. They used the cross-correlation function to analyze trade between Pakistan and Japan across fifteen 2-digit industries.
What worked and what didn't
The S-curve pattern appeared in three industries, but not in the other twelve. The study's evidence indicates that exchange rate depreciation did not help improve Pakistan's trade balance with Japan.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not provide details about the specific industries, the time period studied, or other methodological limits. It also does not describe whether the findings are intended to apply beyond Pakistan-Japan trade.
Key points
- The S-curve was found in 3 of 15 industries.
- The study examined trade between Pakistan and Japan.
- Exchange rate depreciation was not favorable for Pakistan's trade balance with Japan.
- The authors suggest focusing on product diversification, innovation, and trade facilitation.
- The analysis used the cross-correlation function at the industry level.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Only three industries showed an S-curve in Pakistan-Japan trade
- Authors:
- Riaz Ahmad, Sareer Ahmad, Mahnoor Anjum, Hong Mi, Zhainagul Abdirasulova
- Institutions:
- Northeast Forestry University, Osh State University, Osh State University, Qilu University of Technology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Quaid-i-Azam University
- Publication date:
- 2026-03-05
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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