AP Macroeconomics

Advanced Placement Macroeconomics studying national and global economic systems.

Advanced Topics

International Trade and Finance

Why Nations Trade

Countries trade to access goods and services they can't efficiently produce themselves. Trade increases variety, lowers costs, and promotes innovation.

Comparative Advantage

A nation has a comparative advantage if it can produce a good at a lower opportunity cost than another nation. This principle guides international specialization and trade.

Exchange Rates

Exchange rates determine how much one currency is worth relative to another. They affect the prices of imports and exports and can fluctuate due to market forces or government intervention.

Balance of Payments

This is a record of all economic transactions between a country and the rest of the world, including trade, investment, and transfers.

Trade Barriers

Tariffs, quotas, and subsidies can restrict or encourage trade, affecting global economic relationships.

Examples

  • The US imports electronics from Asia because it's cheaper than producing them domestically.

  • A strong dollar makes American exports more expensive for foreign buyers.

In a Nutshell

International trade allows countries to specialize, trade, and grow, but comes with policy challenges.

International Trade and Finance - AP Macroeconomics Content | Practice Hub