balance of trade
Học thuậtThân thiện
A country's balance of trade is favorable when it exports more goods than it imports.
Definition
- Noun:
- The difference in value over a period of time between a country's imports and exports of merchandise. It is a key component of a nation's current account in its balance of payments. The "balance of trade" specifically measures the monetary value of physical goods (merchandise) that cross a country's borders.
Usage
- The term is used in economics, international trade, and government policy discussions.
- It is typically described as favorable or positive when the value of exports exceeds the value of imports (a trade surplus).
- It is described as unfavorable or negative when the value of imports exceeds the value of exports (a trade deficit).
- It is often analyzed over specific periods, such as monthly, quarterly, or annually.
Examples
- Noun:
- The country's balance of trade showed a surplus last quarter due to strong automotive exports.
- Policymakers are concerned about the deteriorating balance of trade.
- A favorable balance of trade can contribute to a stronger national currency.
Advanced Usage
- "Visible balance of trade": Sometimes used to specify that it only includes tangible goods, distinguishing it from the "balance of services."
- The overall balance of payments includes the balance of trade plus the balance of services, income, and current transfers.
Variants and Related Words
- Trade balance: A synonymous term.
- Trade surplus: The situation where exports exceed imports.
- Trade deficit: The situation where imports exceed exports.
- Net exports: A closely related economic aggregate representing the value of a country's total exports minus its total imports.
Synonyms
- Trade balance
- Commercial balance
- Merchandise trade balance
Related Terms and Concepts
- Current Account: A broader measure that includes the balance of trade, plus trade in services, primary income, and secondary income.
- Protectionism: Government policies (like tariffs) sometimes implemented to try to improve a nation's balance of trade.
A country's balance of trade is favorable when it exports more goods than it imports.
Noun
- the difference in value over a period of time of a country's imports and exports of merchandise
- a nation's balance of trade is favorable when its exports exceed its imports