Kautilya on international trade policies

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present Kautilya's ideas on international trade.

Design/methodology/approach

A non‐technical descriptive approach is followed.

Findings

Kautilya implicitly proposes a theory of gains from trade and recommends imports promotion rather than export promotion.

Research limitations/implications

It is indicated that our current understanding regarding international trade during ancient times is quite inadequate.

Practical implications

There will be no need for current endless negotiations if countries commit themselves to Kautilya's policy of import promotion.

Originality/value

The paper provides insights into trade patterns during the ancient times.

Citation

Sihag, B.S. (2009), "Kautilya on international trade policies", Humanomics, Vol. 25 No. 1, pp. 68-74. https://doi.org/10.1108/08288660910934781