That appears reasonable from a number of perspectives. First, trade openness
indicates a general predisposition to an economic openness, a belief that growth and
development are enhanced by linkages to world economy. Thus, trade openness should
be an indicator of a belief that FDI and TNCs are a net contributor to development. 25
Second, trade openness may lead to a concern for export competitiveness and an
appreciation of the roles that TNCs play in generating export capabilities