Free trade tends to lower prices for consumers due to the availability of more options. Which statement best captures this outcome?

• A. Expanded tariffs reduce costs for producers
• B. Increased domestic subsidies lower prices
• C. Competition is reduced, keeping prices stable
• D. Access to a wider range of goods lowers average prices

Answer: (D)

Free trade expands the options available to consumers and boosts competition among suppliers. When more goods from different producers enter the market, firms must compete on price to attract buyers, which tends to push prices down overall. The broader variety also lets buyers substitute cheaper imported products for more expensive domestic ones, contributing to lower average prices across categories. That idea—access to a wider range of goods lowers average prices—best captures the outcome of free trade.

The other statements don’t fit the idea of lower consumer prices through broader options: tariffs typically raise costs for producers and can raise prices for consumers; subsidies often distort prices rather than lower them by increasing choice; and reduced competition would contradict the competitive pressure that free trade brings.