foreign trade
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foreign trade
Trade in goods and services across a country's borders; the international exchange of goods.
Der Außenhandel ist für die deutsche Wirtschaft von entscheidender Bedeutung.
Foreign trade is of crucial importance for the German economy.
The word is made up of 'außen' (outside) and 'der Handel' (trade). So it literally describes trade that takes place with other countries (outside).
Der Außenhandel ist ein wichtiger Motor für die Wirtschaft.
Foreign trade is an important engine for the economy.
Common verbs used with 'Außenhandel' (foreign trade) are 'betreiben' (to engage in), 'fördern' (to promote), or 'stärken' (to strengthen). People also often speak of 'florierender' (flourishing) or 'rückläufiger' (declining) foreign trade.
Viele Länder versuchen, ihren Außenhandel durch Abkommen zu stärken.
Many countries try to strengthen their foreign trade through agreements.
'Außenhandel' (foreign trade) is a technical term from economics and politics. You often find it in the news, specialist articles, and official reports.
Die Regierung diskutierte neue Strategien zur Förderung des Außenhandels.
The government discussed new strategies for promoting foreign trade.
export
'der Export' and 'der Außenhandel' both have to do with trade across national borders. However, 'Export' only refers to the direction going abroad: a country or company sells and delivers something to another country. 'Außenhandel' is broader and includes all trade with other countries, so exports and imports together. Learners may confuse the words because both appear in economic texts. If only exportation is meant, 'Export' fits. If it is about international trade in general, 'Außenhandel' is more precise.
Im Kurs sprechen wir über den Außenhandel Deutschlands mit anderen Ländern.
In the course, we talk about Germany's foreign trade with other countries.
Für die kleine Firma ist der Export nach Österreich besonders wichtig.
For the small company, exports to Austria are especially important.