Question

Name two arguments that support international trade.

Answer 1

One argument for is that exports help improve the terms of trade of a country and also opens markets for domestic producers, meaning they can grow, employ more workers, earn more income, etc. Another argument for is that it increases competition, as there are goods coming in from all corners of the world, which may pressure domestic pressures to be more competitive and innovative with their products, improving its quality and product choice.

An argument for protectionism could be that imports may actually be harming domestic producers, which as we can see from President Trump's rhetoric, we can deduce that cheap imports from China will take sales revenue away from American producers and potentially cause them to lose customers and close down. Another argument for is that quotas and tariffs will make imports more expensive, which may make domestic products more price competitive.

Regarding the opinions, come up with it yourself. Think of the pros and cons and make a balanced judgement.

Answer 2

One argument for is that exports help improve the terms of trade of a country and also opens markets for domestic producers, meaning they can grow, employ more workers, earn more income, etc. Another argument for is that it increases competition, as there are goods coming in from all corners of the world, which may pressure domestic pressures to be more competitive and innovative with their products, improving its quality and product choice.