E-commerce has become a prominent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays, reflecting its growing importance in shaping global trade dynamics. Based on recent exam trends and expert predictions, questions related to e-commerce and international trade are likely to appear with increasing frequency in future IELTS tests. To help you prepare effectively, we’ve selected a relevant question from past exams and created sample essays for different band scores.
Some people think that the increasing use of computers and the Internet for business will lead to a complete restructuring of global trade. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to consider the impact of digital technologies, particularly computers and the Internet, on global trade structures. Key points to address include:
- The extent of agreement or disagreement with the statement
- The current role of computers and the Internet in business
- Potential changes in global trade patterns due to e-commerce
- Possible limitations or counterarguments to the restructuring of global trade
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The digital revolution, spearheaded by widespread computer use and Internet connectivity, is undeniably transforming the landscape of global commerce. While I largely agree that these technological advancements are catalyzing a significant restructuring of international trade, I believe that the transformation, though profound, may not be as “complete” as the statement suggests.
The pervasive influence of digital technologies on business operations is reshaping trade dynamics in unprecedented ways. E-commerce platforms have democratized access to global markets, enabling even small businesses to engage in cross-border trade with minimal physical infrastructure. This shift has led to the emergence of “micro-multinationals” – small enterprises with global reach – challenging the traditional dominance of large corporations in international commerce. Furthermore, digital payment systems and cryptocurrencies are streamlining financial transactions, reducing barriers to international trade by simplifying currency exchanges and lowering transaction costs.
Moreover, the Internet has revolutionized supply chain management and logistics. Real-time data analytics and AI-driven forecasting are optimizing inventory management and distribution networks on a global scale. This enhanced efficiency is not only reducing operational costs but also enabling more responsive and flexible trade patterns. The rise of dropshipping and fulfillment services further exemplifies how digital technologies are reconfiguring traditional business models and trade relationships.
However, it would be an overstatement to claim that this restructuring will be “complete.” Physical goods still require physical transportation, and geopolitical factors continue to influence trade policies. Additionally, disparities in digital infrastructure and regulatory frameworks between nations may impede the uniform adoption of e-commerce practices globally. Some industries, particularly those dealing with sensitive or highly regulated products, may also face limitations in fully transitioning to digital trade models.
In conclusion, while I strongly agree that computers and the Internet are driving a significant reorganization of global trade structures, I believe that this transformation, though extensive, will not be absolute. The future of international commerce will likely be characterized by a hybrid model, integrating digital innovations with established trade practices and adapting to the diverse economic landscapes across the globe.
E-commerce's impact on global trade dynamics
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
I mostly agree that the increased use of computers and the Internet for business is leading to big changes in global trade. This technology is making it easier for companies to buy and sell things around the world.
One main reason for this change is that online shopping websites let businesses reach customers in different countries easily. For example, a small company in India can now sell products to people in America or Europe without needing a physical store there. This is changing how international business works.
Another way computers and the Internet are changing trade is through better communication. Companies can now talk to suppliers and customers anywhere in the world instantly, which makes doing business across borders much faster and easier. This quick communication helps businesses make deals and solve problems more efficiently.
Digital payments are also making international trade simpler. People can buy things from other countries and pay online without worrying about exchanging money. This makes it easier for both businesses and customers to participate in global trade.
However, there are some limits to how much computers and the Internet can change global trade. Some products still need to be physically moved between countries, which means traditional shipping methods are still important. Also, different laws and regulations in various countries can make online international trade complicated.
In conclusion, I believe that computers and the Internet are definitely changing how global trade works, but it might not be a complete change. While many aspects of trade are becoming digital, some parts of traditional trade will probably stay the same.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
I agree that computers and the Internet are changing global trade a lot. Many businesses now use these technologies to buy and sell things all over the world.
One big change is online shopping. People can now buy products from other countries easily on the Internet. This means businesses can sell to customers in many different places without having shops there. It’s good for small businesses because they can reach more customers.
Also, the Internet makes it easier for businesses to talk to each other. They can send emails and have video calls with people in other countries. This helps them make deals faster and work together better. It’s changing how international business happens.
Another thing is that computers help businesses manage their money and products better. They can keep track of what they buy and sell in different countries more easily. This makes international trade more efficient.
But there are some problems too. Not all countries have good Internet, so some places might not be able to join in this new way of trading. Also, some products still need to be transported by ships or planes, so not everything can be done on the Internet.
In conclusion, I think computers and the Internet are making big changes to global trade, but maybe not changing everything completely. It’s making trade easier and faster for many businesses, but some old ways of trading are still important.
Digital transformation in international trade
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a clear position, developing key points with relevance and depth.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Logically organized with clear progression throughout. Uses cohesive devices effectively.
- Lexical Resource: Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a wide range of structures with flexibility and accuracy.
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses all parts of the task, though some aspects may be more fully covered than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Arranges information coherently and there is clear overall progression.
- Lexical Resource: Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task with some attempts at less common vocabulary.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with generally good control.
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses the task only partially, with limited development of main points.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Presents information with some organization but may lack overall progression.
- Lexical Resource: Uses a limited range of vocabulary but this is minimally adequate for the task.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a limited range of structures with some errors that may impede communication.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- E-commerce (noun) /ˈiːkɒmɜːs/ – commercial transactions conducted electronically on the Internet
- Global trade (noun phrase) /ˈɡləʊbəl treɪd/ – the exchange of goods and services across international borders
- Digital revolution (noun phrase) /ˈdɪdʒɪtəl ˌrevəˈluːʃən/ – the shift from mechanical and analog electronic technology to digital electronics
- Restructuring (noun) /riːˈstrʌktʃərɪŋ/ – the process of reorganizing the structure of something
- Cross-border trade (noun phrase) /krɒs ˈbɔːdə treɪd/ – commerce between different countries
- Supply chain management (noun phrase) /səˈplaɪ tʃeɪn ˈmænɪdʒmənt/ – the handling of the entire production flow of a good or service
- Geopolitical (adjective) /ˌdʒiːəʊpəˈlɪtɪkəl/ – relating to politics, especially international relations, as influenced by geographical factors
- Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
Key vocabulary for e-commerce and global trade
In conclusion, the impact of e-commerce on global trade dynamics is a significant and evolving topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. The sample essays provided demonstrate different approaches and levels of sophistication in addressing this complex issue. To further enhance your skills, consider practicing with similar topics such as:
- The role of artificial intelligence in international business
- The impact of social media on global marketing strategies
- Cybersecurity challenges in cross-border e-commerce
We encourage you to write your own essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your writing skills and gain valuable feedback from peers and instructors.