Programme

This course will provide students with an analytical framework for the study of international trade. It is divided in two parts. The first considers both the predictions of the Neoclassical trade theory (i.e., the Ricardian Model and the Heckscher-Ohlin Model) and the new trade models with imperfect competition, including the most recent developments related to firm-level evidence. The second one discusses the effects and the political economy determinants of trade policy. International agreements multilateral trade liberalization and on regional trade liberalization will be also discussed. The course considers both the theories and recent empirical works, as well as a discussion of the relevant methodological issues in measurement and estimation.
Section 1: International trade: stylized facts
- Facts, changes and history of globalization
- New players: Emerging economies
Section 2: Trade theories
- The Absolute and Comparative Advantage
- The Ricardian Model
- Factor endowments and the Heckscher-Ohlin Model
- The New Trade Theories
- Firm Heterogeneity
Section 3: Trade policy
- Import Tariffs and Quotas
- Export subsidies and taxes
- Measuring trade protection
- Non-tariff barriers
- Political economy of trade policy
- Multilateral trade integration: the World Trade Organization
- Regional trade integration: trade creation and trade diversion
Section 4: Empirical lab sessions
- Trade and trade policies data sources
- Working with trade and trade policies data

Core Documentation

Textbook:
R. C. Feenstra and A.M Taylor (2014), International Trade, Third Edition, Worth Publishers.

Type of delivery of the course

Class lectures.

Attendance

Class attendance is mandatory for International Studies students.

Type of evaluation

Oral exam.