International trade plays a key role in global economic development. By allowing countries to exchange goods and services, this trade increases efficiency and creates growth opportunities. One of the main impacts of international trade is increased access to wider markets. Countries can leverage their comparative advantages, eliminate tariff and non-tariff barriers, and expand their product footprint in the global market. The positive impacts of international trade include increased economic growth. According to World Bank data, countries that are active in international trade tend to show higher GDP growth compared to those that are isolated. This is due to innovation and technology transfer that emerged when global markets opened up. These innovations often drive productivity and efficiency in various sectors, including manufacturing and technology. However, international trade also has negative impacts that cannot be ignored. While some sectors may benefit, others often experience losses. Less competitive sectors may be pressured by increased imports, leading to job losses and even bankruptcies. This is often seen in traditional industries that cannot compete with cheaper products from other countries. Another aspect of the impact of international trade is economic instability. Dependence on global markets can make a country vulnerable to global economic crises, as seen in the 2008 financial crisis. A country that is too dependent on exports may experience a more severe impact following a decline in demand from other countries. A clear example is the crisis in countries that depend on global commodity prices. The social impact of international trade is also significant. While trade can create new opportunities for entrepreneurs and workers, the results are not always equitable. Income inequality between social classes may be increasing, with profits concentrated in the hands of a small group of individuals or large corporations. This produces social tensions that have the potential to trigger unrest. For developing countries, international trade can be a double-edged sword. On the one hand, they have the opportunity to attract foreign investment and expand their markets. On the other hand, dependence on certain export products can endanger long-term economic sustainability. When global demand fluctuates, economies dependent on a single export can experience severe impacts. Countries also often regulate trade through protection policies to protect local industries. However, this policy could result in retaliation from other countries and create diplomatic tensions. The free trade negotiation process can be complex, often involving compromises between national and global interests. In addition, the environmental impacts of international trade also need to be considered. Increased production and transportation of goods can increase carbon emissions and other environmental problems. Countries involved in international trade must strive to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. Through its positive and negative sides, international trade shapes the competitiveness and vulnerability of the global economy. Wise policy development and good international cooperation are the keys to optimizing benefits and minimizing risks. In an increasingly connected world, the impact of international trade will continue to influence economic dynamics in all countries.