- Docente: Filippo Piermaria Ferroni
- Credits: 6
- SSD: ECON-01/A
- Language: English
- Teaching Mode: In-person learning (entirely or partially)
- Campus: Bologna
- Corso: Second cycle degree programme (LM) in International Management (cod. 6803)
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from Nov 09, 2026 to Dec 14, 2026
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
Why do countries trade? What are the consequences of import tariffs? Why Brexit and protectionism? This course aims to address these issues and many other relevant topics, related to international trade. At the end of the course, students will have a solid preparation in international economics and will be able to critically evaluate both the main microeconomic theories, and the political problems related to the international movements of goods and services, people and capital.
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:
Introduction (S 1; KOM 1,2)
Comparative advantage, technology and Ricardian model (S 2, KOM 3)
Factor proportions and Heckscher-Ohlin model (S 3,4; KOM 4,5,6)
Economies of scale and new trade theory (S 4; KOM 7,8)
Trade policy and politics (S 5,6; KOM 9,10)
Integration, development and factor movements (S 7,8,9; KOM 10,11,12)
Readings/Bibliography
Salvatore, Introduction to International Economics, 2012, Wiley, 3rd Edition.
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
AI can be a useful tool to assist individual study with in-depth analysis, summaries and self-assessment paths.
Assessment methods
Course evaluation consists on a final written exam.
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
The use of AI is prohibited during the exam. Any use is a violation of academic integrity.
Teaching tools
Learning platform: Virtuale (virtuale.unibo.it) contains the slides (made available during the course)
Office hours
See the website of Filippo Piermaria Ferroni