IB Economics HL · Unit 4 of 6

IB Economics HL Unit 4: The global economy

Unit 4 of IB Economics covers The global economy. This unit contains 10 topics and 25 sub-topics. Below you'll find free study notes, flashcards, and exam preparation resources for every topic in this unit.

Higher Level students should treat this unit page as a route map: revise the shared core, then use the HL notes and topic links to reach the extra depth and evaluation expected at HL.

10 topics25 sub-topics

Exam technique guide

What Unit 4 covers

Unit 4 explores trade, protection, exchange rates, balance of payments, and development—how economies interact globally and the consequences of policy choices (with additional HL depth in analysis).

Topics in Unit 4

4.1

Benefits of international trade

3 sub-topics

4.2

Types of trade protection

4 sub-topics

4.3

Arguments for and against trade control/protection

2 sub-topics

4.4

Economic integration

2 sub-topics

4.5

Exchange rates

3 sub-topics

4.6

Balance of payments

2 sub-topics

4.7

Sustainable development

2 sub-topics

4.8

Measuring development

2 sub-topics

4.9

Barriers to economic growth and/or economic development

2 sub-topics

4.10

Economic growth and/or economic development strategies

3 sub-topics

Study tip: Work through the topics in order — each builds on concepts from the one before. Start with notes, then reinforce with flashcards and practice questions.

Ready to study The global economy?

Get expert practice questions with instant AI feedback, and a study planner tailored to your IB Economics HL exam date.

Start studying free

Unit 3 All Economics HL units