Abstract
The analysis of non-tariff protectionism presented in the article in the
context of its reasons, forms and influence on international trade results in
a conclusion that we deal with a phenomenon that has immanently become
part of the mechanism of global economy; both in the context of its structural
form and opportunistic manifestations of activeness. Rather paradoxically,
the countries that have achieved a high level of economic development try to
protect their financial status with the use of NTM. Non-tariff protectionism
demonstrates its restrictive form especially in the periods of crisis and hits
the weaker links of international exchange – less developed countries. The
changeable form of contemporary protectionism measures, often defined
as a ‘moving target’, makes liberalization activities more difficult. They are
more and more complex in the light of changes that are taking place in
the contemporary world due to a more and more dynamic scientific and
technological progress. That is why TBT/SPS have become so important in
the whole range of non-tariff measures and difficulties with curbing their
restrictive influence occur. Undoubtedly, it is necessary to increase efforts in
order to awaken the conscience about threats resulting from the selfish use of
NTM in international exchange and look for effective ways of fighting against
non-tariff restrictions. It can be assumed that the efforts on the arena of the
WTO and other international organizations that aim at the above-mentioned
principles will reach an adequate critical mass necessary to start liberalization
activities in international trade in the predictable future.