Abstract
Protectionist trade policies are intended to put national interests first and support domestic industry growth, with an increase in the intensity of tariff war in recent times. This paper explores how increasing protectionist trade policies impact women in those export-driven sectors where women constitute a large workforce segment. Drawing on Feminist Economics and the Capability Approach, this research explores how protectionism, despite the intended purpose of potentially safeguarding jobs in specific sectors, can intensify gender inequalities by restricting women’s economic prospects, limiting their access to higher-paying formal employment, and reinforcing traditional gender roles in the labour market. Through qualitative analysis of secondary data comprising reports from international organisations, trade policy reviews, scholarly articles, and statistical databases, the paper demonstrates how protectionist policies intersect with gender to impact women’s economic stability and well-being. By highlighting the capability to lead meaningful lives and incorporating feminist critiques of economic frameworks, the study sheds light on how protectionism may hinder women’s freedoms and chances for progress. This research aims to enhance understanding of how trade policies can either empower or restrict women and presents policy suggestions to ensure that trade protection initiatives are more inclusive and considerate of gender issues.