国际贸易英文讲义.doc

Chapter 1 An Overview of International Trade 1.1 International Trade 1.1.1 Definition of International Trade 1 International Trade International Trade refers to the exchange of goods and services between nations. It is also known as foreign trade or overseas trade. 2 Difference between international trade and domestic trade The fundamental characteristic making international trade different from domestic trade is that international trade involves transactions that take place across national borders. Special problems may arise in international trade, which are not normally experienced in domestic trade. These problems are listed as follows: 稩nternational trade usually has to be conducted in foreign languages and under foreign laws and regulations. 稩t is difficult to obtain information about the credit and financial standing of the possible dealing partners. 稩t is often unavoidable to use foreign currency in international trade and exchange rate variations can be risky to international traders. 種umerous culture differences may have to be taken into account in international trade. 稲isks levels might be higher in foreign market. The risks include political risks, commercial risks, financial risks and transportation risks. 1.1.2 Why Nations Trade Almost every nation of the world export goods to other countries. Likewise, almost every nation import goods from other nations. Why do countries of the world engage in international trade? Why are thy not self-sufficient, capable of living exclusively on the goods and services produced within their own borders? Various answers can be cited. In general, the reasons for international trade can be classified as resource reasons, economic reasons, and political reasons. Resources Reasons Some nations of the world have certain conditions or resources that provide them with a basis for international trade. Illustrations include the following: 稦avorable climate conditions and terrain. mFor example, Colombia and Brazil ha