Lesson 2
Lesson 2
International Trade
Agreements
FUNDAMENTALS OF TRADE
International Trade
International trade refers to the exchange of goods and services between countries.
In simple words, it means the export and import of goods and services.
Export means selling goods and services out of the country,
while import means goods and services flowing into the country.
International Trade
Suppose it is impossible to
produce that product
domestically, like a special
variety of fruit or a mineral.
For instance, Japan has no
natural oil reserves, and thus,
it imports all its oil.
Demand
Comparative Advantage
It allows countries to specialize in producing only those goods and services which it is good at
and hence provide a comparative advantage.
Economies of Scale
If a country wants to sell its goods in the international market, it will have to produce more than
what is needed to meet the domestic demand. So, producing higher volume leads to economies
of scale, meaning the cost of producing each item is reduced.
Advantages of International Trade
Competition
Selling goods and services in a foreign market also boosts the competition in that market. In a
way, it is good for local suppliers and consumers as well. Suppliers will have to ensure that their
prices and quality are competitive enough to meet the foreign competition.
Transfer of Technology
International trade often leads to the transfer of technology from a developed nation to a
developing nation. Govt. in the developing nation often lay terms for foreign companies that
involve developing local manufacturing capacities.
Advantages of International Trade
Over-dependence
Countries or companies involved in foreign trade are vulnerable to global events. An unfavorable event may
impact the demand for the product and could even lead to job losses. For instance, the recent US-China
trade war adversely affects the Chinese export industry.
Unfair to New Companies
New companies or start-ups that don’t have much resources and experience may find it difficult to compete
against the big foreign firms.
Threat to National Security
If a country is over-dependent on the imports for strategic industries, then exporters may force it to decide
that may not be in the national interest.
Disadvantages of International Trade
disadvantages.