Translation guide
The exchange of goods and services across national borders. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with 国際貿易 (こくさいぼうえき) or simply 貿易 (ぼうえき), which already implies international trade unless specified otherwise.
Referring to the overall concept or field of international trade.
The standard term for 'trade' in an international context. In Japanese, 貿易 alone usually implies international trade, so 'international' is often omitted.
日本は貿易に依存している。
Japan depends on international trade.
Explicitly 'international trade'. Used when you need to emphasize the international aspect or in formal contexts.
国際貿易のルールについて話し合う。
Discuss the rules of international trade.
Referring to a country's trade with other nations, often in economic reports or news.
Literally 'foreign trade'. Commonly used in official statistics and economic contexts.
外国貿易統計が発表された。
Foreign trade statistics were released.
Similar to 外国貿易, but slightly more formal. Often used in policy discussions.
対外貿易の拡大を目指す。
Aim to expand foreign trade.
Focusing on the actual movement of goods across borders.
A compound meaning 'exports and imports'. This is the most natural way to refer to the activities of international trade.
輸出入のバランスが重要だ。
The balance of exports and imports is important.
Trade transactions. Used in business contexts to refer to specific deals or commercial exchanges.
貿易取引の手続きを簡素化する。
Simplify trade transaction procedures.
Referring to the system of global trade, often in academic or policy contexts.
International commerce/trade. Often used in formal or diplomatic contexts, such as trade agreements.
国際通商交渉が行われた。
International trade negotiations were held.
World trade. Emphasizes the global scale, often used in the context of organizations like the WTO.
世界貿易機関（WTO）の役割を学ぶ。
Learn about the role of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
In Japanese, 貿易 (ぼうえき) already implies international trade unless specified as 国内貿易 (こくないぼうえき, domestic trade). Adding 国際 (こくさい) is for emphasis or clarity.