This paper summarises the key research and models for creative trade. Starting with a general overview of how creative goods and services have been defined in the literature, it then examines the competing theories used to model trade in the creative industries.

The paper then focuses on the role of intellectual property rights, and how effective historic agreements and international standards have been at rewarding creative work and promoting competition. 

Finally, it  discusses a number of sector specific studies, in particular those examining the film industry and the music industry. 

This literature review is written by Professor Giorgio Fazio, PEC researcher at Newcastle University Business School and the lead of our area of work in International Competitiveness

Published 11th January 2021

Photo credit:  Artificial Photography on Unsplash