Global trade policies have consistently appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions over the past decade, particularly in questions about economic development, international cooperation, and environmental protection. Based on analysis of past exam topics, this theme has appeared in approximately 15% of all Task 2 questions since 2018, making it a highly relevant topic for IELTS candidates to master.
Let’s examine one of the most representative questions that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that governments should focus on making international trade policies that protect their domestic industries. Others argue that free trade between countries should be encouraged. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for protectionist trade policies
- Examine benefits of free trade
- Present and justify their own position
- Support arguments with relevant examples
IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Structure Analysis for Trade Policy Topic
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate between protectionism and free trade remains a crucial economic policy issue that affects global trade policies and markets. While some advocate for protecting domestic industries, others support unrestricted international trade. In my view, while some protective measures may be necessary in specific circumstances, the overall benefits of free trade outweigh the advantages of protectionist policies.
Those who support protectionist policies argue that safeguarding domestic industries is essential for national economic security and employment. For instance, when South Korea initially developed its automotive industry, it implemented temporary trade barriers to allow companies like Hyundai to establish themselves before facing international competition. Similarly, how government policies affect investments can be seen in how developing nations protect their agricultural sectors to maintain food security and rural employment.
However, free trade offers more substantial long-term benefits for both economies and consumers. International competition drives innovation, reduces prices, and improves product quality. For example, how international trade affects developing economies is evident in Vietnam’s economic transformation through increased foreign trade, which has significantly reduced poverty rates and enhanced technological capabilities. Furthermore, free trade promotes specialization based on comparative advantage, leading to more efficient resource allocation globally.
In my opinion, while strategic protection might be necessary for emerging industries or during economic crises, free trade should be the predominant approach. The key is finding the right balance – maintaining some protective measures for critical sectors while progressively opening markets to benefit from international trade’s advantages.
Band 8.5 Score Explanation
- Task Response (9): Thoroughly addresses all parts of the task with well-developed arguments and clear position
- Coherence and Cohesion (8): Logical organization with effective use of cohesive devices
- Lexical Resource (8): Sophisticated vocabulary with natural and precise usage
- Grammar (9): Wide range of structures used accurately and flexibly
[Additional sample essays and detailed analyses to follow based on character limit…]
Key Vocabulary
- protectionist policies (n.) /prəˈtekʃənɪst ˈpɒləsiz/ – measures designed to protect domestic industries
- comparative advantage (n.) /kəmˈpærətɪv ædˈvɑːntɪdʒ/ – economic theory about production efficiency
- safeguarding (v.) /ˈseɪfɡɑːdɪŋ/ – protecting from harm or damage
- unrestricted (adj.) /ˌʌnrɪˈstrɪktɪd/ – without limitations or controls
- economic transformation (n.) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk trænsfəˈmeɪʃən/ – fundamental change in economic structure
High-Scoring Sentence Patterns
- “While X argues for A, Y supports B” – Complex contrast structure
- “For instance, when [specific example], it [result]” – Example integration pattern
- “The key is finding [noun], while [gerund clause]” – Balance expression structure
Would you like to practice writing an essay on this topic? Share your attempt in the comments section below for feedback and improvement suggestions.
