Many developing countries consider "tariff escalation" to be a problem because its existence means that: They find it more difficult to break into new markets for their exports of raw materials, in which they have comparative advantage. Their exports face tariffs that legally sanctioned (by the World Trade Organization) in import markets, principally among industrialized countries. Their exports would increase (or "escalate") more rapidly if they faced lower tariffs abroad. Their exports face steadily increasing (or "escalating") tariffs in import markets over time. They find it more difficult to diversify their exports into intermediate and finished goods sectors