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NotesEconomicsTopic 4.2Subsidies and export subsidies
Back to Economics Topics
4.2.34 min read

Subsidies and export subsidies

IB Economics · Unit 4

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Contents

  1. 1A subsidy to home producers
  2. 2Export subsidies
  3. 3Exam-style question

A subsidy is a payment from the government to home producers. It lowers their costs.

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The points to remember

  • On the diagram: domestic supply shifts right; the price stays at Pw; imports fall.
  • The government pays subsidy × home output.

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An export subsidy pays firms for each unit they sell abroad.

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Who gains, who loses

1

Home producers gain

They sell more at the same price, with lower costs.

Sell more
2

The government pays

€60 thousand that cannot go to schools or hospitals: an opportunity cost.

Cost
3

Consumers: little change

With a production subsidy the price stays at Pw.

Same price
4

Foreign producers lose

They sell fewer imports: the EU's farm subsidies anger poorer exporters.

Sell less

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Paper 2 asked this in May 2026, for 4 marks.

IB-style questionExplain[4 marks]

Text A says that the government is paying a subsidy to domestic sugar producers.

Using an international trade diagram, explain how the subsidy is likely to affect sugar imports.

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How the 4 marks are given

MarksWhat your answer needs
3–4A correct diagram and a correct explanation
1–2A correct diagram or a correct explanation, not both
3 at mostA diagram with a wrong or missing label

IB Exam Questions on Subsidies and export subsidies

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How Subsidies and export subsidies Appears in IB Exams

Examiners use specific command terms when asking about this topic. Here's what to expect:

  • Define

    Give the precise meaning of key terms related to Subsidies and export subsidies.

    AO1
  • Describe

    Give a detailed account of processes or features in Subsidies and export subsidies.

    AO2
  • Explain

    Give reasons WHY — cause and effect within Subsidies and export subsidies.

    AO3
  • Evaluate

    Weigh strengths AND limitations of approaches in Subsidies and export subsidies.

    AO3
  • Discuss

    Present arguments FOR and AGAINST with a balanced conclusion.

    AO3

See the full IB Command Terms guide

Related Economics Topics

Continue learning with these related topics from the same unit:

4.1.1Benefits of international trade4.1.2Free trade on a diagram: exports and imports4.2.1Tariffs4.10.1Trade strategies and diversification
View all Economics topics
Improve your exam techniqueCommand terms, paper structure, and mark-scheme tips for Economics
Previous4.2.2Import quotasNextAdministrative barriers4.2.4

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