Course coordinator
Professor KK Tang
Course overview
- Study period
- Semester 1, 2026 (23/02/2026 - 20/06/2026)
- Study level
- Postgraduate Coursework
- Location
- St Lucia
- Attendance mode
- In Person
- Units
- 2
- Administrative campus
- St Lucia
- Coordinating unit
- Economics School
Survey of recent advances in foreign trade and investment. Topics include trade theory and policy, international factor movement, theories of international investment and contemporary trade and investment issues.
Overview
The first part of the course will focus on the main policy instruments that governments have used to influence trade and factor rewards. This part of the course will also consider the political economy of trade policy. The second part of the course will study the motivations for international trade by reviewing models of international trade, starting with the Ricardian model and concluding with the new trade models.
The course extensively uses Blackboard, with the weeklyﾠuploading of many learning resources: lecture recordings,ﾠslides, tutorial questions with model answers. In addition, the course incorporates UQ Extend with selected materials for all topics available in advance.
Blended-learning
ECON7530ﾠisﾠa blended-learning course with the following learning activities:ﾠ
- Weeklyﾠpre-lecture online material on UQ Extendﾠduring weeks 1-12
- Weeklyﾠin-person tutorials during weeks 2-13ﾠ(note:ﾠtutorial starts from week 2)
- Weeklyﾠin-person lectures during weeks 1-13ﾠ(note:ﾠlecture starts from week 1)
Students must complete the pre-lecture online material on UQ Extend for each topic before attending the in-person lecture. Rather than repeating the online material, the lecturer will cover additional content during the in-person lecture, assuming that students have already completed the pre-lecture online material. Additionally, the course coordinator/instructor will also use the workshop to discuss assessments, do exam-preparation exercises, and discuss some current events relevant to the course content.
Course requirements
Assumed background
Students should have an understanding of microeconomic concepts and tools, such as indifference curves, transformation curves, demand and supply curves and the like. If this knowledge is missing, students have to fill the gaps on their own, primarily by consulting microeconomic textbooks, as no lecture time will be available to dwell on these topics. This should be accomplished before the first lecture.
Prerequisites
You'll need to complete the following courses before enrolling in this one:
ECON2010 or 7002 or 7110
Incompatible
You can't enrol in this course if you've already completed the following:
ECON3510
Course contact
School enquiries
School Enquiries, School of Economics
All enquiries regarding student and academic administration (i.e. non-course content information, e.g., class allocation, timetables, extension to assessment due date, etc.) should be directed toﾠenquiries@economics.uq.edu.au.ﾠ
Enquiries relating specifically to course content should be directed to the Course Coordinator/Lecturer.
Course staff
Lecturer
Professor KK Tang
Tutor
Miss Thao Nguyen
Mr Phuoc Bao Long Hoang
Miss Vera Wang
Timetable
The timetable for this course is available on the UQ Public Timetable.
Additional timetable information
Lectures commence in week 1.
Tutorials commence in week 2.
Please see the Learning Activities section of this Course Profile for the timetabling implications of public holidays.
Important Dates:
- Public Holidays: Fri 3 April (Good Friday), Mon 4 May (Labour Day).
- Mid-Semester Break: 6 April - 10 April. Semester 1 classes recommence on Mon 13 April.
Students should refer to the timetable prior to the commencement of classes to ensure that they have the most up-to-date information, as late room changes may occur from time to time.
Aims and outcomes
The course will cover topics in both the pure theory of international trade and trade policy issues that form the core of this subject. Important key concepts and core models will be studied in order to equip students to analyse controversial trade policy issues in an objective manner. The lectures will aim to highlight leading contemporary international issues that confront policy makers as their economies globalise or integrate with the world economy through trade and investment.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course you should be able to:
LO1.
Explain the process of economic globalisation and the pattern and direction of international trade flows.
LO2.
Evaluate key concept of comparative advantage, core models of the pure theory of international trade (The Ricardian Model. The Heckscher-Ohlin Model. The Standard Trade Model), the models based on economies of scale and imperfect competition, and the implications of international factor movements.
LO3.
Examine the role of policy instruments and the political economy of protection.
LO4.
Critically review some of the important trade and investment issues facing developed and developing economies.
LO5.
Critically analyse some of the controversies related to trade and globalisation.
Assessment
Assessment summary
| Category | Assessment task | Weight | Due date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tutorial/ Problem Set |
Tutorial Preparation
|
10% (best 7 out of 9 submissions) |
Week 2 - Week 6 Week 10 - Week 13
Due weekly on Monday by 1 pm, starting from week 2. |
| Presentation, Poster |
Policy Analysis (Part A): Poster Presentation and Data Files
|
30% |
31/03/2026 1:00 pm
|
| Paper/ Report/ Annotation | Policy Analysis (Part B): Report and Data Files | 30% |
12/05/2026 1:00 pm |
| Examination |
End-of-Semester Exam
|
30% |
End of Semester Exam Period 6/06/2026 - 20/06/2026 |
Assessment details
Tutorial Preparation
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Tutorial/ Problem Set
- Weight
- 10% (best 7 out of 9 submissions)
- Due date
Week 2 - Week 6
Week 10 - Week 13
Due weekly on Monday by 1 pm, starting from week 2.
- Other conditions
- Longitudinal.
Task description
Students are required to make a tutorial submission by attempting selected tutorial questions at the beginning of each tutorial week. The selected questions normally consist of 1-2 calculation/short-answer questions and MCQs. There will be 9 tutorials, and only the 7 best tutorial submissions will be counted (i.e. the 2 lowest-scoring submissions will be discarded). Tutorial preparation must be completed via Blackboard by 1 pm on the Monday of the corresponding tutorial week.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) USAGE: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Translation (MT) are emerging tools that may support students in completing this assessment task. Students may appropriately use AI and/or MT in completing this assessment task. Students must clearly reference any use of AI or MT in each instance.
A failure to reference generative AI or MT use may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Submission guidelines
Only submissions via Turnitin will be accepted.
Deferral or extension
You cannot defer or apply for an extension for this assessment.
Extensions are not allowed because answers are provided to students soon after the due date, and only the best 7 out of 9 scores will be counted.
Late submission
You will receive a mark of 0 if this assessment is submitted late.
Policy Analysis (Part A): Poster Presentation and Data Files
- In-person
- Mode
- Oral
- Category
- Presentation, Poster
- Weight
- 30%
- Due date
31/03/2026 1:00 pm
- Students must present their poster during the randomly allocated timeslot in their sign-on tutorial or lecture in Weeks 7-9.
- The Presentation PDF File (which includes the Poster) and the Excel and PowerPoint Data Files are all due 1 pm Tuesday, 31 March (regardless of the allocated time slot for the presentation).
Task description
You choose a home country, a foreign country and a product such that currently the foreign country imposes tariffs and/or quotas on the product from the home country. The home country is negotiating with the foreign country to reduce or remove these tariffs and/or quotas. As the home country’s trade minister, you will present your case during the negotiations using a poster.
You fulfil these tasks through the following four (4) components: Poster (as part of the Presentation PDF File), Excel and PowerPoint Data Files, Presentation (in-person), and Q&A (as part of the Poster Presentation). You are NOT allowed to read from a script for your presentation.
Detailed instructions will be provided on Blackboard > Assessment.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) USAGE:
This task has been designed to be challenging, authentic and complex. While students may use AI and/or MT technologies, successful completion of this assessment will require students to critically engage in specific contexts and tasks for which artificial intelligence will provide only limited support and guidance.
Students are also allowed to use proofreading software for grammar checks.
Students who use an AI for this assessment task are responsible for any inaccuracies in the AI-produced material.
Submission guidelines
The Presentation PDF File (which includes the Poster) and the Excel and PowerPoint Data Files must be submitted via the corresponding submission links on Blackboard.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 7 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
Please see the "Additional Assessment Information" section below for further information regarding extension of assessment due date (EADD) requests.
Even if a student is granted an extension to submit their Presentation PDF File and Data Files, the date of their presentation will NOT automatically be changed. Approval for an extension to the presentation will require a separate application.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
The late submission penalty rate is based on the submission times of the Presentation PDF File and the Data Files, whichever is the latest. For example, if the Presentation PDF File is 18 hours late, the PowerPoint Data File is 20 hours late, and the Excel Data File is 25 hours late, then the penalty will be based on the submission time of the Excel file, i.e. 20 marks.
Policy Analysis (Part B): Report and Data Files
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Paper/ Report/ Annotation
- Weight
- 30%
- Due date
12/05/2026 1:00 pm
Task description
You choose one pair of countries from the list provided in the instructions. Suppose that the pair of countries you chose is now considering signing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA). As an economist of an independent think tank, you have been appointed by the two countries to produce a report and related data files assessing the pros and cons of such an FTA.
Detailed instructions will be provided on Blackboard > Assessment.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) USAGE:
This task has been designed to be challenging, authentic and complex. While students may use AI and/or MT technologies, successful completion of this assessment will require students to critically engage in specific contexts and tasks for which artificial intelligence will provide only limited support and guidance.
Students are also allowed to use proofreading software for grammar checks.
Students who use an AI for this assessment task are responsible for any inaccuracies in the AI-produced material.
Submission guidelines
The Report and Data Files must be submitted via the corresponding submission links on Blackboard.
Deferral or extension
You may be able to apply for an extension.
The maximum extension allowed is 7 days. Extensions are given in multiples of 24 hours.
Please see the "Additional Assessment Information" section below for further information regarding extension of assessment due date (EADD) requests.
Late submission
A penalty of 10% of the maximum possible mark will be deducted per 24 hours from time submission is due for up to 7 days. After 7 days, you will receive a mark of 0.
The late submission penalty rate is based on the submission times of the Report and the Data Files, whichever is the latest. For example, if the Report is 18 hours late, the PowerPoint Data File is 20 hours late, and the Excel Data File is 25 hours late, then the penalty will be based on the submission time of the Excel file, i.e. 20 marks.
End-of-Semester Exam
- Identity Verified
- In-person
- Mode
- Written
- Category
- Examination
- Weight
- 30%
- Due date
End of Semester Exam Period
6/06/2026 - 20/06/2026
- Other conditions
- Time limited.
Task description
The final exam is centrally administrated. Its format and coverage will be provided on Blackboard during the semester.
This assessment task is to be completed in-person. The use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Machine Translation (MT) tools will not be permitted. Any attempted use of AI or MT may constitute student misconduct under the Student Code of Conduct.
Exam details
| Planning time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Calculator options | (In person) Casio FX82 series only or UQ approved and labelled calculator |
| Open/closed book | Closed book examination - specified written materials permitted |
| Materials | One A4 sheet of handwritten notes , single sided, is permitted |
| Exam platform | Other |
| Invigilation | Invigilated in person |
Submission guidelines
Deferral or extension
You may be able to defer this exam.
Course grading
Full criteria for each grade is available in the Assessment Procedure.
| Grade | Cut off Percent | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (Low Fail) | 0% - 29% |
Absence of evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 2 (Fail) | 30% - 46% |
Minimal evidence of achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 3 (Marginal Fail) | 47% - 49% |
Demonstrated evidence of developing achievement of course learning outcomes |
| 4 (Pass) | 50% - 64% |
Demonstrated evidence of functional achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 5 (Credit) | 65% - 74% |
Demonstrated evidence of proficient achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 6 (Distinction) | 75% - 84% |
Demonstrated evidence of advanced achievement of course learning outcomes. |
| 7 (High Distinction) | 85% - 100% |
Demonstrated evidence of exceptional achievement of course learning outcomes. |
Additional course grading information
A student’s final overall end of semester percentage mark will be rounded to determine their final grade. For example, 64.5% rounds to 65%, while 64.4% rounds to 64%.
ﾠ
Supplementary assessment
Supplementary assessment is available for this course.
Additional assessment information
Key Points for Extension of Assessment Due Date (EADD) Requests:
- Requests must be made BY THE STUDENT and submitted via my.UQ. This applies even where a student has a Student Access Plan (SAP) in place.
- Requests must be submitted on or before the assessment item’s due date and time. Requests for extensions received after the due date and time must include evidence of the reason for the late request.
- Acceptable reasons for an extension include medical reasons, a current SAP, or other exceptional circumstances. Detailed information and the supporting documentation required must be attached to the EADD request.
- Unacceptable grounds for an extension include:
o misreading an assignment due date or time,
o computer or internet problems
o holiday arrangements
o unexpected events causing the loss of a few hours of study time close to the due date
o difficulty studying effectively or adjusting to the demands of university life
o visa or financial problems
o everyday levels of stress and/or anxiety associated with employment and/or studying
o ordinary family events or commitments
o dysfunctional group dynamics, poor performance by individual group members, or illness or other issues of a group member
Using AI at UQ
Visit the AI Student Hub for essential information on understanding and using Artificial Intelligence in your studies responsibly.
Plagiarism
The School of Economics is committed to reducing the incidence of plagiarism. You are encouraged to read the UQ Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy available in the Policies and Procedures section of this course profile.
The Academic Integrity Module (AIM) outlines your obligations and responsibilities as a UQ student. It is compulsory for all new to UQ students to complete the AIM.
Learning resources
You'll need the following resources to successfully complete the course. We've indicated below if you need a personal copy of the reading materials or your own item.
Library resources
Find the required and recommended resources for this course on the UQ Library website.
Additional learning resources information
If you are using an earlier edition of the textbook, e.g. the 10th or 11th edition, you will need to find out what is missing from the 12th edition by reading the 'What's new in the 12th edition' and 'What's new in the 11th edition' documents on Blackboard > Learning Resources.
To gain maximum benefit from the course, students are expected to engage fully with the course. Developing an understanding of a field extends far beyond the lecture material. For example, keeping abreast of developments in the negotiations relating to Free Trade Agreements such as the Trans-Pacific Partnership and developments in global trade policies will ensure that you will gain a deeper understanding of international trade.
Learning activities
The learning activities for this course are outlined below. Learn more about the learning outcomes that apply to this course.
Filter activity type by
Please select
| Learning period | Activity type | Topic |
|---|---|---|
Week 1 (23 Feb - 01 Mar) |
Lecture |
Introduction to World Trade + Instruments of Trade Policy (UQ Extend + In-person) |
Week 2 (02 Mar - 08 Mar) |
Lecture |
Political Economy and Controversies of Trade Policy (UQ Extend + In-person) |
Tutorial |
Introduction to World Trade + Instruments of Trade Policy |
|
Week 3 (09 Mar - 15 Mar) |
Lecture |
Ricardian Model (Part 1) (UQ Extend + In-person) |
Tutorial |
Political Economy and Controversies of Trade Policy |
|
Week 4 (16 Mar - 22 Mar) |
Lecture |
Ricardian Model (Part 2) (UQ Extend + In-person) |
Tutorial |
Ricardian Model (Part 1) |
|
Week 5 (23 Mar - 29 Mar) |
Lecture |
Heckscher-Ohlin Model (Part 1) (UQ Extend + In-person) |
Tutorial |
Ricardian Model (Part 2) |
|
Week 6 (30 Mar - 05 Apr) |
Lecture |
Heckscher-Ohlin Model (Part 2) (UQ Extend + In-person) |
Tutorial |
Heckscher-Ohlin Model (Part 1) 3 April is the Good Friday public holiday. Students enrolled on a tutorial on this day can attend any one of the other tutorials during the week instead. |
|
Mid-sem break (06 Apr - 12 Apr) |
No student involvement (Breaks, information) |
Mid-semester Break |
Week 7 (13 Apr - 19 Apr) |
Case-based learning |
Assessment: Poster Presentation During Tutorials and Lecture |
Week 8 (20 Apr - 26 Apr) |
Case-based learning |
Assessment: Poster Presentation During Tutorials and Lecture |
Week 9 (27 Apr - 03 May) |
Case-based learning |
Assessment: Poster Presentation During Tutorials and Lecture |
Week 10 (04 May - 10 May) |
Lecture |
Standard Trade Model (UQ Extend + In-person) |
Tutorial |
Heckscher-Ohlin Model (Part 2) |
|
Week 11 (11 May - 17 May) |
Lecture |
Gravity Model + New Trade Theory (Part 1) (UQ Extend + In-person) |
Tutorial |
Standard Trade Model |
|
Week 12 (18 May - 24 May) |
Lecture |
New Trade Theory (Part 2) (UQ Extend + In-person) |
Tutorial |
Gravity Model + New Trade Theory (Part 1) |
|
Week 13 (25 May - 31 May) |
Lecture |
Revision (In-person) |
Tutorial |
New Trade Theory (Part 2) |
Policies and procedures
University policies and procedures apply to all aspects of student life. As a UQ student, you must comply with University-wide and program-specific requirements, including the:
- Student Code of Conduct Policy
- Student Integrity and Misconduct Policy and Procedure
- Assessment Procedure
- Examinations Procedure
- Reasonable Adjustments for Students Policy and Procedure
- AI for Assessment Guide
Learn more about UQ policies on my.UQ and the Policy and Procedure Library.