Explain the difference between absolute advantage and comparative advantage. Which is the basis for international trade, and why?

Micro Economics For Today
10th Edition
ISBN:9781337613064
Author:Tucker, Irvin B.
Publisher:Tucker, Irvin B.
Chapter15: International Trade And Finance
Section: Chapter Questions
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Explain the difference between absolute advantage and comparative advantage. Which is the basis for international trade, and why? The graph below represents the market for sugar in the U.S. The domestic supply and demand curves are drawn, the world price for sugar is indicated, and the effect of a tariff the US is imposing on sugar imports is shown. Use the graphic to calculate consumer surplus, producer surplus, economics surplus, government revenue, and deadweight loss. Do so under each of the following three situations: 1) no trade, 2) free trade, and 3) the sugar tariff. A friend tells you the following: “Free trade sounds good, but a country like Honduras doesn’t have any comparative advantage compared to the United States. Therefore, trade with us will exploit them and make their economic situation worse.” Explain to your friend the error in his thinking.
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