Ricardian Model of International Trade: An Overview
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Analysis of Ricardian Model of Trade
The Labor Theory of Value forms the basis of the Ricardian model of trade. This model put stress on technological difference as the prime reason behind the trading activities. Unlike other international trade theories, which propose that trade is beneficial for some, but not favorable for others, the Ricardian model of trade highlights on the fact that trade is beneficial for all the countries involved in international trade. This model suggests that even a backward economy that uses inferior technology is going to benefit from international trade.
The analysis of Ricardian model crucially depends on the implications of the Labor Theory of Value. The major implications of labor theory of value include the following:
2) Labor is absolutely mobile between sectors within the domestic boundary; however immobile across countries.
3) Labor units are homogeneous within a country.
Assumptions of Ricardian Model of Trade
The Ricardian model is developed on the following assumptions:
In the Ricardian model autarkic terms of trade is determined by the technological parameters. Demand is not the basis of international trade in the Ricardian model. However, as far as the determination of equilibrium composition of output is concerned, demand has a major role to play. The composition of output in autarkic equilibrium is determined by using both the relative demand and the relative supply.
According to the Ricardian model of trade, the demand side conditions come in handy in determining the trade compositions and gains from trade, after trade opens up. Demand plays a crucial role in the determination of international terms of trade in the Ricardian model only after opening up of trade.