International Trade Policy

Instructors

ITO Banri

Term / Language / Credits

A2 / English / 2

Objectives

This course focuses on international trade theory and empirical evidence to the study of international trade policy.
In the first part of the course, we will discuss theoretical and empirical studies of the determinants of trade. The second part of the course will cover topics in international trade policy including the determinants and the influence on economy.

Keywords

International Economics, International Trade, Trade Policy, English

Schedule

1. Introduction: Basic Facts of International Trade
2. Gains from Trade
3. Neoclassical Models of Trade: Ricardian Models
4. Neoclassical Models of Trade: Factor Proportions Models
5. New Trade Theory: Economies of Scale and Imperfect Competition
6. Firm Heterogeneity and Selection into Export
7. Firm Heterogeneity and Trade Liberalization
8. Trade and Inequality
9. Overview of Trade Policy and Roadmap to Trade Liberalization
10. Gains from Trade and Regional Trade Agreements
11. Tariffs and Dumping
12. Export Subsidies
13. Political Economy and Trade Policy
14. Empirical Evidence on Trade Policy Preferences
15. Paper Submission and Presentation

Teaching Methods

Lecture
Students will need to complete the following assignments:
1. Reading assignments; students must write two short reports on selected academic papers that are on the reading list. The list will be distributed in the lecture.
2. Term paper; you are expected to write a term paper related with topics in the lecture. The paper should include research proposal with statistical data that reinforces your ideas. More detailed requirements will be announced in the lecture.
3. You are expected to participate in class discussion.

Grading

The short reports for reviewing papers will account for 40% and the term paper will carry an equal weight of 40% in the grade, with the participation in the class discussion and the presentation contributing the remaining 20%.

Reference Books

Feenstra, R.C. 2003. Advanced International Trade: Theory and Evidence.
Helpman, E. 2011. Understanding Global Trade.

Notes on Taking the Course

Students are expected to have basic knowledge of undergraduate-level microeconomics and econometrics.

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