25751 - International Economics

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course students are able to: - acquire competences about the theoretical and regulatory framework for trade - familiarize with institutional structures and regulatory authority for trade - develop awareness about the international dimensions of market regulation

Course contents

This course offers a comprehensive overview of the regulatory frameworks shaping international trade, focusing on both global institutions and regional markets such as the U.S., EU, Africa, and Asia. Students will explore key issues including tariffs, customs regulations, product standards, and intellectual property rights, alongside mechanisms for dispute settlement. The course blends theoretical foundations in international economics with practical insights into trade policy, protectionism, and market integration. Special attention is given to understanding institutions like the WTO, NAFTA, and the EU, as well as the impact of trade agreements and regulatory bodies on global commerce.

Structure of the course:

1 Introduction (S 1; KOM 1,2)

2 Comparative advantage, technology and Ricardian model (S 2, KOM 3)

3 Factor proportions and Heckscher-Ohlin model (S 3,4; KOM 4,5,6)

4 Economies of scale and new trade theory (S 4; KOM 7,8)

5 Trade policy and politics (S 5,6; KOM 9,10)

6 Integration, development and factor movements (S 7,8,9; KOM 10,11,12)

Readings/Bibliography

Required Readings:

Salvatore, Introduction to International Economics, 2012, Wiley, 3rd Edition.

Supplementary Readings (Optional):

Krugman, Obstfeld and Melitz, International Economics: Theory and Politics. 2018, Pearson, 11th Edition.

The course will be mostly based on Salvatore's textbook, which is easier and particularly recommended for students with a weaker background in economics. Students who already attended micro and macroeconomic courses and who look for a deeper analytical elaboration may find it useful to study Krugman, Obstfeld and Melitz’ textbook, which is more formalized.

In the analytical content (see above) the two textbooks are referred to by the authors' initials, S and KOM, followed by the corresponding chapter number.

Teaching methods

- Lectures

- Class discussions

Assessment methods

Class attendance and participation is mandatory for at least 60% of the course.

Course evaluation will be as detailed in the following:

Attending students:

Component Weight (%)

Final Exam 100

- Exam structure:

The exam consists of ten multiple choice questions (MCQ) and two short open questions. MCQ have only one correct answer out of four options. Open questions require solving simple problems.

- Exam policy:

Students are required to register for the exam by using the online application procedure (almaesami).

Students can refuse a passing mark but only once. Each mark higher than 18/30 will automatically be registered by the instructor after the student’s second attempt on.

Grading scale:

< 18: failed

18-23: sufficient

24-27: good

28-30: very good

30 e lode: outstanding

Students with disability or specific learning disabilities (DSA) are required to make their condition known to find the best possibile accommodation to their needs.

Teaching tools

Tools, platforms, or resources used during the course:

- Learning platform: Virtuale (virtuale.unibo.it) contains the slides (made available during the course)

Office hours

See the website of Filippo Piermaria Ferroni