F1IP 4000 - International Trade

The objective of this course is to provide students the analytical tools that are essential to understand the process of globalization through the international trade in goods. Lectures will focus on the key topics that are at the center of the policy debate: why do countries open to trade? What are the effects of free trade on the process of economic development and inequality? Why do countries restrict the exchange of goods, and what can we say about the effects of protectionism on trade and welfare?

At the end of the course, students are expected to have a good knowledge of the mechanisms and predictions from the traditional models of trade, and from the New Trade Theory. Students will also be able to read simple research articles that can be used for the writing of policy notes.

The 12 courses (24 hours) will be organized as follows: 10 lectures will be designed to deal with the main topics of the course. 1 lecture will be assigned to the mid-term exam. Finally, the last lecture will be used as a rehearsal to prepare the final exam.

Learning Outcomes

• understand the process of globalization through the international trade in goods
• understand the different school of thought analyzing international trade
• understand and synthesize simple research articles
• read graphs and apply simple statistical tools for empirical analysis

Professional Skills

Redaction of policy brief and/or empirical work

Research & Analysis

Critical thinking

None

Each lecture will take 2 hours, with a total of 24 hours. The 12 lectures will be dedicated to the study of the topics specified in the syllabus, 1 mid-term exam (2 hours), and 1 "rehearsal" session before the final exam.

Each lecture will take the form of a seminar, powerpoint presentations will be available in advance. Even though no students’ presentation is planned, students are strongly encouraged to ask questions, and show their interest for the topics that will be discussed.

Grades are based on a mid-term exam (50%), and a comprehensive final examination 50%

Students are expected to read the textbook chapters before each lecture.