The free movement of goods across national borders
The free movement of goods across national borders has long been a controversial issue. Some people argue that it is necessary for economic growth, while others claim that it damages local industries.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Solution
Unrestricted international commerce of goods has been the subject of persistent disagreement and debate. Opinions vary among individuals regarding the indispensability of economic development; while certain argue that it negatively impacts domestic industries, others assert that it is vital. Both viewpoints will be discussed in this essay, followed by my own stance.
Proponents of global free trade argue that economies expand more rapidly when they are able to concentrate their efforts on a limited number of industries in which they have a distinct advantage. Consequently, each nation or region makes a significant contribution to the worldwide economy. East Asia specialises in the manufacture of electronic products, while the Middle East exports energy resources predominately and the European Union supplies luxury items predominately. Supporters of free trade contend that dependence on international trade promotes cooperation among nations and acts as a preventive measure against potential disputes.
On the contrary, opponents of free trade contend that the unrestricted movement of goods and services negatively impacts neighbouring communities. Job displacement transpires when the cost of importing a particular product surpasses that of domestic production. Moreover, they argue that the extensive transportation of consumer goods, food, and oil contributes to the unsustainability of our existence and has negative environmental effects. Protectionists espouse the implementation of more rigorous controls on the movement of products and services as a means to protect livelihoods and employment opportunities.
To sum up, free movement of goods is the need of the hour and necessary to meet demand. I believe that global trade is inevitable and should not be restricted. It is no longer realistic for nations to source all of their energy, food, and manufactured goods entirely within their own borders.
