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International Trade

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Revision Method

Benefits of Trade

Revision Notes

Key Points

  • Specialization and Comparative Advantage
  • Access to a Wider Range of Goods and Services
  • Economies of Scale
  • Increased Competition
  • Access to New Technologies and Knowledge

Specialization and Comparative Advantage

  • Countries can specialize in producing goods and services in which they have a comparative advantage, leading to increased productivity and efficiency.
  • Specialization allows countries to take advantage of their unique resources, skills, and technologies, leading to higher output and lower costs.

Access to a Wider Range of Goods and Services

  • International trade allows countries to access a broader range of goods and services that may not be available domestically.
  • This increases consumer choice and access to a diverse range of products, improving living standards.

Economies of Scale

  • By accessing larger global markets, companies can achieve economies of scale, leading to lower production costs and prices for consumers.
  • This can make domestic industries more competitive on the global stage.

Increased Competition

  • International trade exposes domestic industries to greater competition, which can drive innovation, efficiency, and lower prices for consumers.
  • This increased competition can lead to better quality products and services.

Access to New Technologies and Knowledge

  • Trade allows the exchange of ideas, technologies, and knowledge between countries, leading to technological advancements and the spread of best practices.