Question 23M.2.SL.TZ0.2f
| Date | May 2023 | Marks available | [Maximum mark: 4] | Reference code | 23M.2.SL.TZ0.2f |
| Level | SL | Paper | 2 | Time zone | TZ0 |
| Command term | Explain | Question number | f | Adapted from | N/A |
Using an international trade diagram, explain the effect of removing tariffs on the imports of fertilizer into Cameroon (Text F).
[4]
Candidates who incorrectly label diagrams can be awarded a maximum of [3].
The use of P and Q on the axes is sufficient for an international trade diagram. World supply may also be labelled S(EU) or S(UK) or S(EU+UK) or just P(W) or (P(UK) or P(EU) or (P(EU+UK). The domestic demand and supply curves can just be labelled D and S. A title is not necessary.
The question did not present any significant difficulties for most candidates. Some students missed out on full marks in the explanation portion as they simply stated that imports increase without providing supporting analysis. For example, they failed to recognize that the decrease in price leads to a decline in domestic supply and/or an increase in domestic demand, resulting in a greater need to import fertilizer. It is worth noting that some students misinterpreted the question and spent a considerable amount of time describing the effects of tariff removal on government revenues, consumer and producer surpluses, and welfare losses. This is not uncommon for questions relating to trade protection diagrams. While there is no mark deduction for over-elaboration, candidates self-penalise by having less time to part (g), which carries more marks.
