Profiles of Adjustment Programs in Eight Countries

Assistance provided to workers and manufacturing firms on the basis of economic injuries suffered because of import competition are reviewed in the following countries: the United States, Australia, Canada, France, Japan, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and West Germany. Programs in these countries are described in detail. In the United States, federal and state assistance is provided to unemployed workers; firms receive technical assistance, loans and loan guarantees; and communities can qualify for public works grants and technical assistance to help in the development of more job opportunities. Of the countries reviewed, Australia is the only country other than the U.S. that has provided assistance to workers and firms in its manufacturing sector on the basis of economic injuries suffered because of import competition. The Australian government has instituted assistance programs that are similar to those provided in the U.S. by the Trade Assistance Act of 1962. Because of changing export markets, assistance is also provided in the form of loans to farmers in Australia.