The impact of international students on UK trade of cultural goods

This study examines the economic impact of the influx of international students on the UK’s trade in cultural goods, following the abolition of the Post Study Work(PSW) visa, which previously allowed graduates from non-EU countries to stay in the UK for at least two years after completing a UK degree. Using administrative enrolment data covering the universe of UK higher education sector spanning from 2008to 2016, this study provides evidence that the PSW visa abolition corresponded with a 34.61% average reduction in the value of UK’s cultural goods export trade to non EU countries (relative to that to EU countries). In contrast, the PSW visa abolition had no impact on cultural goods imports. Furthermore, the PSW visa abolition had pronounced impacts on cultural goods exports to countries with lower GDP, smaller population, and higher stock of immigrants. These findings underscore the broader economic implications of policies affecting international student mobility, highlighting the need for careful consideration when avoid unintended negative consequences on cultural trade.