How did Paul Bernard argue in favour of economic development of Vietnam ?
(1) Generally, the colonies serve the interests of the mother country. Paul Bernard believed that the economies of the colonies should be developed because the aim of acquiring colonies was to make profits. He argued that if the economy was developed and the standard of living of the people improved, they would buy more goods. The market would consequently expand, leading to better profits for French business. (2) According to Bernard there were following barriers to the economic growth of Vietnam : High population level. Low agricultural productivity. Extensive indebtedness amongst the peasants. Bernard suggested that to reduce poverty and increase agricultural productivity, it was necessary to carry out land reforms as the Japanese had done in 1890s. However, this could not ensure sufficient employment. As the experience of Japan showed, industrialisation would be essential to create jobs.
