Liberalization – economic policy reforms to render economies more market-orientated – is a central issue in most countries of the world. This important contribution to the literature of liberalization analyzes theoretical issues and experiences of reform. Existing approaches to evaluating the effects of reform are reviewed, difficulties of measuring liberalization are discussed, the complex ways in which reforms can impact on individuals and groups are illustrated, and the importance of political concerns are addressed. The final four chapters offer detailed case studies of Pakistan, Mozambique, Vietnam and Sri Lanka.