International Trade Modes
International trade is the exchange of goods and services between countries. Through this type of commerce, different countries can redistribute and buy goods and services they may not be able to produce on their own. International trade can take place in several forms, with each type having its own benefits and drawbacks.
Conventional trade or overland trade is the process of two countries exchanging goods directly with one another. This type of trade is typically conducted on the basis of quotas, which are akin to the trade restrictions both countries agree on. Goods are transported by truck, train, or boat and cross the border to enter their destination country. While overland trade is relatively inexpensive, this type of trade is subject to customs duty requirements, taxes, as well as currency and language barriers.
Another type of international trade is countertrade, or barter trade. This method is used when countries are unable to exchange goods and services in their own currency. Under barter trade, one country may agree to trade a certain quantity of its goods for another countrys different goods. This type of arrangement allows countries to benefit from the fact that certain goods may be in higher demand in certain markets than in others.
Thirdly, international trade may take place via franchising. The franchising business model is one in which a foreign business grants another domestic business the right to use its products and services. The benefit of franchising is that the franchised brand can gain exposure to different markets quickly and expand its global reach. Franchising requires that the local business partner exhibit knowledge of the original businesss operations.
Lastly, there is the international auction procedure. This method typically involves two countries agreeing to set up an auction platform at which they will trade goods. This type of transaction may be conducted in real-time between two parties, or it may be done through an intermediary. Auctions can prove beneficial to both countries, as the institution involved may have access to goods at cheaper costs than what is available to the public.
International trade provides many advantages for countries. It encourages economic development, as goods and services can move more freely throughout the world without being restricted by a lack of resources or resources from one specific region. Countries can also find a way to diversify their exports, strengthening the international footprint and creating new opportunities for goods and services that did not exist before. Despite these advantages, there are still several challenges associated with international trade, such as trade barriers that hinder the distribution of goods and services.