Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on International Trade Agreements’ Impact on Developing Countries

International trade agreements and their effects on developing countries have become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. This theme has appeared in several past exams and is likely to continue being relevant due to its global significance. Let’s explore this subject through sample essays and in-depth analysis.

Analyzing the Topic

The question of How International Trade Agreements Affect Developing Countries is complex and multifaceted. It touches on economics, politics, and social issues, making it an ideal subject for IELTS essays. When approaching this topic, candidates should consider both positive and negative impacts, providing a balanced view supported by specific examples.

Some people think that international trade agreements are more beneficial for large companies in developed countries than for citizens of developing countries. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Sample Essays

Band 8-9 Essay

International trade agreements have long been a subject of debate, with proponents arguing for their economic benefits and critics highlighting potential drawbacks for developing nations. While these agreements undoubtedly provide advantages to large corporations in developed countries, I partially agree that they can also offer significant benefits to citizens of developing nations, albeit with some caveats.

On one hand, it is undeniable that multinational corporations from developed countries often reap substantial rewards from international trade agreements. These companies benefit from increased market access, reduced tariffs, and streamlined regulations, allowing them to expand their operations and boost profits. For instance, when the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) was implemented, U.S. automobile manufacturers gained easier access to Mexican markets, leading to increased sales and profitability.

US Auto Industry Growth After NAFTA

However, it would be shortsighted to dismiss the potential advantages these agreements can bring to developing countries. Trade agreements can stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, and facilitate technology transfer in emerging economies. A prime example is Vietnam’s participation in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which has led to a surge in foreign investment and export growth, particularly in the textile and electronics sectors. This influx of capital and expertise has contributed to job creation and skill development for Vietnamese workers.

Moreover, international trade agreements often include provisions for labor rights and environmental protections, which can benefit citizens of developing countries in the long term. For example, the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) includes stronger labor provisions than its predecessor, NAFTA, potentially leading to improved working conditions and wages for Mexican workers.

Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that the benefits of trade agreements are not always equally distributed within developing countries. Small-scale farmers and local businesses may struggle to compete with large foreign corporations, potentially leading to job losses and economic displacement in certain sectors. Additionally, developing countries may face challenges in negotiating favorable terms due to power imbalances in international relations.

Impact of Trade Agreements on Small Businesses

In conclusion, while international trade agreements undoubtedly benefit large companies in developed nations, they can also provide substantial advantages to citizens of developing countries. The key lies in ensuring that these agreements are thoughtfully negotiated and implemented, with adequate safeguards to protect vulnerable populations and promote inclusive growth. Ultimately, the goal should be to create a global trading system that fosters mutual prosperity and sustainable development for all nations involved.

Band 6-7 Essay

International trade agreements have become a hot topic of discussion in recent years. Some people believe that these agreements mainly benefit big companies in developed countries rather than the citizens of developing nations. I partially agree with this statement, as there are both advantages and disadvantages to consider.

On one hand, it’s true that large corporations from developed countries often gain significant benefits from trade agreements. These companies can access new markets, reduce costs, and increase profits. For example, when a trade agreement is signed, a big American company might find it easier to sell its products in a developing country, potentially making more money.

However, it’s important to note that trade agreements can also bring benefits to developing countries. They can create job opportunities, attract foreign investment, and help local businesses grow. For instance, when Vietnam joined international trade agreements, its textile industry grew rapidly, creating many new jobs for Vietnamese workers.

Additionally, trade agreements sometimes include rules that protect workers’ rights and the environment in developing countries. This can lead to better working conditions and improved environmental standards, which directly benefit the citizens of these nations.

On the other hand, there are valid concerns about the impact of trade agreements on developing countries. Small local businesses might struggle to compete with large foreign companies, potentially leading to job losses. Also, developing countries may not always have the power to negotiate fair terms in these agreements.

In conclusion, while international trade agreements do offer significant advantages to large companies in developed countries, they can also provide benefits to citizens of developing nations. The key is to ensure that these agreements are fair and consider the needs of all parties involved. Governments of developing countries should work to negotiate terms that protect their citizens’ interests and promote sustainable economic growth.

Band 5-6 Essay

International trade agreements are a big topic these days. Some people think they are better for big companies in rich countries than for people in poor countries. I think this is partly true, but not completely.

It’s true that big companies in developed countries get many benefits from trade agreements. They can sell more products in new countries and make more money. For example, a big American company can sell its things easier in a poor country after a trade agreement.

But trade agreements can also help people in developing countries. They can get new jobs and learn new skills. For instance, when Vietnam signed trade agreements, many new factories opened, and people got jobs there.

Sometimes, trade agreements also have rules to protect workers and the environment in poor countries. This can make life better for people there.

However, there are also problems with trade agreements for developing countries. Small local businesses might have trouble competing with big foreign companies. This could mean some people lose their jobs.

In conclusion, I think international trade agreements have both good and bad points for developing countries. They help big companies in rich countries, but they can also help people in poor countries if they are done right. Governments should try to make these agreements fair for everyone.

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay Explanation

This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic, warranting a high band score:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with a nuanced view. It discusses both benefits and drawbacks, providing specific examples.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively, such as “On one hand,” “However,” and “Moreover.”
3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is sophisticated and precise, with phrases like “undeniably,” “streamlined regulations,” and “economic displacement.”
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of complex structures used accurately, with only minor errors.

Band 6-7 Essay Explanation

This essay shows good writing skills but lacks some of the sophistication of the higher band essay:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses the main parts of the task and presents a clear position, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated.
3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate and clear, but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, but lacks the range and flexibility of the Band 8-9 essay.

Band 5-6 Essay Explanation

This essay demonstrates basic writing skills but has several limitations:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses the task in a basic way, but ideas are underdeveloped and repetitive.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a simple organizational structure, but paragraphing and cohesive devices are limited.
3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is limited and repetitive, with some errors in word choice and usage.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay relies mainly on simple sentence structures with limited accuracy in more complex sentences.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Trade agreement (noun) /treɪd əˈɡriːmənt/ – A contract between countries that governs their trade relations.
2. Multinational corporation (noun) /mʌltɪˈnæʃənl kɔːrpəˈreɪʃn/ – A company that operates in multiple countries.
3. Tariff (noun) /ˈtærɪf/ – A tax imposed on imported goods.
4. Foreign investment (noun) /ˈfɒrɪn ɪnˈvestmənt/ – The investment of money in a country by companies from other countries.
5. Economic displacement (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – The loss of jobs or economic opportunities due to changes in the economy.
6. Labor provisions (noun) /ˈleɪbər prəˈvɪʒənz/ – Rules in trade agreements that protect workers’ rights.
7. Negotiate (verb) /nɪˈɡoʊʃieɪt/ – To discuss something in order to reach an agreement.
8. Sustainable development (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – Economic development that doesn’t deplete natural resources.

Conclusion

Understanding the complexities of international trade agreements and their impact on developing countries is crucial for success in IELTS Writing Task 2. By analyzing the sample essays and explanations provided, you can improve your ability to craft well-structured, coherent, and insightful responses to this topic.

For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:

1. The role of global trade in economic development
2. How automation is changing international trade dynamics
3. The environmental impact of international trade

Remember, the key to improving your IELTS Writing score is practice and reflection. Try writing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you internalize the structures and vocabulary needed for a high-scoring IELTS essay.