Global Economics Real-World Examples

4 IB Economics case studies in global economics, each with the syllabus topics it covers, evaluation points for both sides, and the key terms to define.

Chinese-built electric vehicles parked at a European port awaiting import clearance

Trade Protection Policy

EU Countervailing Duties on Chinese Electric Vehicles

European Union, China2024 to 2029

The EU imposed duties on Chinese EVs after finding subsidies that threatened economic injury to European producers.

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European and United States shipping containers separated by a tariff barrier

Trade Protection Policy

U.S. Tariffs on European Union Imports in 2025

United States, European Union2025

The U.S. imposed new tariffs on EU imports in 2025, aiming to support domestic production and address trade imbalances.

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Illustration representing global economics and cross-border investment.

Development Strategy

Johor's AI Data Centre Boom: FDI, Supply-Side Growth and Sustainability

Malaysia2022–present

Johor's data-centre boom shows how digital FDI can raise productive capacity while creating energy, water and sustainability trade-offs.

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Cargo containers and trade routes representing trade between Malaysia and the EFTA states.

Economic Integration

Malaysia–EFTA Free Trade Agreement: Trade Creation, Trade Diversion and Economic Integration

Malaysia, Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein2025–present

Malaysia and the EFTA states signed a free trade agreement that will cut tariffs and expand trade, while creating adjustment risks.

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