A Brief Review of the Evolution of International Trade Theories

This study intended to review of the evolution of the theories and policies related to international trade, ranging from classic and neo-classic theories to recent trade theories that have been already applied by several developed countries for international trade. To that end, at first neo-classic trade theories, ranging from reciprocal demand theory to resource endowment one, along with their experimental applications as well as logical critics against them are offered. then, complementary discussions on Linder’s overlapping demand and the role of geography and transportation in trade, vertical intra-industry trade, horizontal intra-industry trade are followed. It finally ends by emphasis on the theories of Ozawa’s flying geese model and strategic trade. Research findings show that economic theories initially focused on inter-industry trade and then expanded with an emphasis on intra-industrial theories. Among these, the role of geography, trade within the vertical and horizontal industry is important. According to the research results, theories of international trade initially emerged with the presentation of classical theories and then matured with neoclassical theories. But the evolution of theories entered a new phase after the introduction of the role of geography and economies of scale with Paul Krugman's article on “trade and geography” in the form of new trade theories (NTT). Also, the progress of international trade theories occurred with the introduction of theories into trade cycles and strategic trade issues.