Question

Suppose that Italy and Portugal both produce cheese and wine. Italy's opportunity cost of producing a bottle of wine is 2 pounds of cheese. That is, Italy forgoes the production of 2 pounds of cheese when it produces a bottle of wine. Portugal's opportunity cost of producing a bottle of wine is 1/2 pound of cheese. _________has a comparative advantage in the production of wine.A. Neither Italy or New Zealand.B. both Italy and New Zealand.C. Italy has.D. New Zealand

Answer 1

Answer:

The correct answer is letter "A": Neither Italy or New Zealand.

Explanation:

Comparative advantage is the ability of an individual or organization to manufacture its products at a lower opportunity cost than its competitors. The scenario does not imply the individual has an absolute advantage. It actually means it sacrifices less to achieve that goal.

Thus, Portugal has a lower opportunity cost than Italy in producing a bottle of wine. Portugal's opportunity cost is 1/2 while Italy's opportunity cost is 2. Neither Italy or New Zealand (or any other country not mentioned in the example) has a comparative advantage in producing wine.