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MODERN THEORIES of International Trade
MODERN THEORIES of International Trade
MODERN THEORIES of International Trade
There are many theories and concepts associated with international trade. When
companies want to go international, these theories and concepts can guide them to be
careful and prepared.
There are four major modern theories of international trade. To have a brief idea, please
read on.
Moreover, this model also shows that comparative advantage also depends on
production technology (that influences relative intensity). Production technology is the
process by which various production factors are being utilized during the production
cycle.
The Heckscher–Ohlin theory tells that trade offers the opportunity to each country to
specialize. A country will export the product which is most suitable to produce in exchange
for other products that are less suitable to produce. Trade benefits both the countries
involved in the exchange.
The differences and fluctuations in relative prices of products have a strong effect on the
relative income gained from the different resources. International trade also affects the
distribution of incomes.
There are three factors in this model: Labor (L), Capital (K), and Territory (T).
Food products are made by using territory (T) and labor (L), while manufactured
goods use capital (K) and labor (L). It is easy to see that labor (L) is a mobile factor
and it can be used in both sectors. Territory and capital are specific factors.
A country with abundant capital and a shortage of land will produce more
manufactured goods than food products, whatever may the price be. A country with
territory abundance will produce more foods.
Other elements being constant, an increase in capital will increase the marginal
productivity from the manufactured sector. Similarly, a rise in territory will increase
the production of food and reduce manufacturing.
Trade gains are bigger in the export sector and smaller in the competing import
sector.
• The presence of the relative global supply curve stemming from the
possibilities of production.
• The relative global demand curve arising due to the different preferences for
a selected product.
The exchange rate is obtained by the intersection between the two curves. An
improved exchange rate – other elements being constant – implies a substantial rise
in the welfare of that country.
Michael Porter identified four stages of development in the evolution of a country. The
dependent phases are: Factors, Investments, Innovation, and Prosperity.