DEC-32306 International Trade and Development Policy

Course

Credits 6.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

DEC-21806 Macroeconomics and International Trade; DEC-20806 Introduction to Development Economics; ECH-21806 Microeconomics or AEP-20306 Economics of Agribusiness; some econometrics, economic models.

Continuation courses:

DEC-30306 Central Themes in Development Economics; Thesis.

Contents:

The course focuses on processes of globalisation, trade liberalisation and macroeconomic policy in developing countries. The theories behind these processes are discussed, the roles played by international organisations (World Bank, IMF, WTO), natural endowments, private sector, development aid, and local institutions. Students prepare individual (or group) presentations on a topical issue, highlighting the pros and cons to feed a discussion.

Learning outcomes:

After successful completion of this course students are expected to be able to 1) analyse economic theories behind international trade policies, market liberalisation, and economic growth in developing countries; 2) to derive the potential effects of globalisation and trade on economic growth and income distribution, and vice versa; 3) to analyze recent empirical trends in globalisation processes, international trade flows, price fluctuations, and poverty in developing countries. Assessment of these outcomes is done through a written open questions exam (which counts for 80%), a group report and an individual presentation (counting for 10% each).

Activities:

Lectures , group work and an individual paper (partially problem oriented).

Examination:

- written exam with open questions (80%);
- 2 presentations (10% each).

Literature:

Articles from recent literature.