free trade
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free trade
A system of international trade in which there are no tariffs, quotas, or other trade barriers between countries. The goal is to make the exchange of goods and services easier.
Das Abkommen soll den Freihandel zwischen den beiden Wirtschaftsräumen fördern.
The agreement is intended to promote free trade between the two economic areas.
The word is directly understandable from its parts: it combines 'frei' (free) and 'der Handel' (trade). So it describes trade that is free from restrictions such as tariffs.
Viele Ökonomen sind Befürworter des Freihandels.
Many economists are supporters of free trade.
In connection with 'Freihandel' (free trade), verbs such as 'fördern' (to promote), 'ermöglichen' (to make possible), or 'einschränken' (to restrict) are often used. People also often speak of a 'Freihandelsabkommen' (free trade agreement) or a 'Freihandelszone' (free trade zone).
Die Länder verhandeln über eine neue Freihandelszone.
The countries are negotiating a new free trade zone.
'Freihandel' (free trade) is a technical term from politics and economics. You mainly find it in the news, specialist texts, and political discussions.
Der Professor hielt einen Vortrag über die globalen Auswirkungen des Freihandels.
The professor gave a lecture on the global effects of free trade.
foreign trade
Both words relate to trade between countries. „Außenhandel“ refers to a country’s actual exchange with other countries, while „Freihandel“ means a system without tariffs, quotas, or other trade barriers. Use „Außenhandel“ when talking about flows of goods, and „Freihandel“ when talking about the conditions governing this exchange.
Zwischen den beiden Ländern erleichtert der Freihandel den Austausch von Waren.
Free trade makes it easier for the two countries to exchange goods.
Der Außenhandel Deutschlands mit seinen Nachbarländern ist im letzten Jahr gewachsen.
Germany’s foreign trade with its neighboring countries grew last year.
