International economic relations [EFASB359]

Learning outcomes

A general introduction aims to help students understand the reality and importance of international trade in the global economic system through an analysis of recent trade flows and the trend towards globalisation. The first part of the course develops the analytical tools provided by the pure theory of international trade. Empirical tests of these theories are illustrated. The second part of the course discusses the link between globalisation and inequality, and the impact of globalisation on developing countries. We conclude with a study of the current debate on globalisation and, in particular, the link between globalisation and inequality.

Content

Part 1 : We develop the pure theory (Ricardo,...) and the recent theory (imperfect competition) of international trade. Part 2 : We analyze the barriers to trade (tariffs and non tariff barriers, dumping, ...) and we examine the institutional management of trade distortions (GATT and WTO). Part 3 : We analyze some topics (trade and development, migration and foreign direct investments).

Table of contents

1. Introduction 2. Pure theory of international trade 2.1. Comparative Advantage Theory 2.2. Factor endowment and remuneration theory 2.3. An introduction to the theory of international trade under imperfect competition 3. Trade policy 3.1. The causes of protectionism 3.2. Trade policy analysis 3.3. Dumping 3.4. Multilateral cooperation 3.5. Regional cooperation 4. Recent issues 4.1. Trade and development 4.2. international movements of factors of production 5. Controversies and Conclusion