International trade’s effect on job markets is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past decade. Based on analysis of past exam questions and how international trade affects developing economies, this topic has appeared in approximately 15% of tests, making it crucial for IELTS candidates to master.
Impact of international trade on global job markets and employment opportunities
Task Analysis
Some people believe that international trade creates more job opportunities, while others argue it leads to domestic unemployment. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires:
- Discussing both positive and negative impacts of international trade on employment
- Providing balanced analysis
- Expressing personal opinion with support
- Meeting 250-word minimum requirement
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The relationship between international trade and employment has sparked considerable debate, with valid arguments on both sides. While I believe the overall impact is positive, it’s essential to examine both perspectives carefully.
Proponents of international trade argue that it generates significant employment opportunities. Multinational companies often establish operations in various countries, creating direct jobs in manufacturing, logistics, and services. For example, when Samsung built factories in Vietnam, it not only employed thousands of workers directly but also stimulated growth in supporting industries. Similarly, impact of global supply chains on local economies shows that international trade fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, leading to new job creation in emerging sectors.
However, critics maintain that foreign competition can lead to domestic job losses. When local companies face competition from cheaper imports, they may be forced to downsize or close, resulting in unemployment. This phenomenon has been particularly evident in traditional manufacturing sectors in developed nations, where effect of economic recession on job markets compounds the challenge.
In my view, while short-term displacement is real, international trade’s long-term benefits outweigh its drawbacks. The key lies in managing transition periods effectively through worker retraining programs and targeted support for affected industries. Furthermore, evidence suggests that countries actively participating in global trade typically experience higher overall employment rates and economic growth.
(275 words)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
International trade is an important topic in today’s world. It affects jobs in many ways, and people have different opinions about this.
Some people think international trade creates more jobs. When companies sell products to other countries, they need more workers to make these products. Also, foreign companies coming to a country bring new jobs. For example, many American companies in China employ local workers. This helps the local economy and gives people work opportunities.
On the other hand, some believe international trade causes unemployment. When cheap products come from other countries, local companies might close because they cannot compete. This means workers lose their jobs. For instance, many textile factories in my country closed because they couldn’t compete with cheaper imports.
I think international trade has both good and bad effects on jobs. While some people lose their jobs, new opportunities also appear. Governments should help workers learn new skills to find different jobs. This way, people can benefit from international trade.
(138 words)
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with cohesive devices
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Balanced discussion with clear personal stance
- Appropriate academic style
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Basic but clear arguments
- Simple but accurate language
- Limited use of complex structures
- Adequate organization
- Underdeveloped examples
- Below minimum word count
Key Vocabulary
- multinational (adj) /ˌmʌl.tiˈnæʃ.ən.əl/ – operating in multiple countries
- entrepreneurship (n) /ˌɑːn.trəprəˈnɝː.ʃɪp/ – starting and managing businesses
- displacement (n) /dɪˈspleɪs.mənt/ – forced removal from a position
- compound (v) /kəmˈpaʊnd/ – make worse
- retraining (n) /riːˈtreɪ.nɪŋ/ – learning new skills for different work
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments. Consider also exploring similar topics like how foreign trade agreements impact investment decisions for additional practice.
