How did smith's on international trade differ from those of mercantilists?

Answer 1

Adam Smith's approach to international trade differed from that of mercantilists primarily in his advocacy for free trade and the benefits of specialization. While mercantilists believed in accumulating wealth through a positive balance of trade and government intervention, Smith argued that trade should be based on comparative advantage and voluntary exchange. He posited that countries should focus on producing goods they can make most efficiently, leading to overall economic growth and mutual benefits rather than zero-sum competition. This shift emphasized the importance of market forces over state control in fostering economic prosperity.