The objective of this option is the to give students a solid grasp of international economics and to ensure that they can use partial and general equilibrium techniques to understand a range of economic issues in international trade and geographical economics. There is a particular emphasis on the interaction between theoretical and empirical modelling.

Learning outcomes comprise:

• a good knowledge of facts relating to international trade and of the role and functioning of the World Trade Organization and multi-lateral trade negotiations (Uruguay, Doha,..);
• the role of trade and fiscal policies in a global economy and the strategic aspects involved;
• an understanding of the determinants (eg. agglomeration forces) of interregional and international GDP level and growth disparities.