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Open markets or freer trade or trade liberalisation are terms used to describe the policies that seek to have freer trade throughout the world. This means that there will be fewer restrictions on trade between countries. In effect, it means that any supplier of goods or services has the right to send those to another country, where they will be bought if they are cheaper or better than what is available locally.

Many people agree with this, and say that free trade increases exports, increases employment, lowers costs, and will make Australia more competitive and successful in the world while increasing our standard of living.

However, there are various ways in which trade is not free between countries. Some of these barriers to free trade are easily seen, but some are hidden from obvious view.

Others disagree, and argue that free trade lowers working conditions, creates unemployment, weakens national culture, and decreases a nation's own sovereignty; it benefits some Australians, but others suffer and pay the cost.

Australia is a trade-dependent nation and the government as a result is a strong supporter of global trade liberalisation.

Source: Adapted from material from Opening Markets The Benefits for Australia. Ryebuck Media and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, 2000.

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