The correct answer is (b) relative abundance of various resources. The Heckscher-Ohlin theory, also known as the factor proportions theory, is a fundamental principle in international trade economics that explains comparative advantage as the result of differences in the relative abundance of various resources among countries. Let’s explore in detail why this answer is correct and why the other options are not:

(b) Relative abundance of various resources:

The Heckscher-Ohlin theory posits that countries have a comparative advantage in producing goods that intensively use resources that are relatively abundant in their own country. In other words, a nation will specialize in the production of goods that make efficient use of the resources it possesses in abundance.

This theory is based on the concept of factor endowments, which refers to the availability of different resources, such as labor, capital, land, and natural resources, in varying quantities across countries.

For instance, if a country is rich in arable land and has a relative abundance of agricultural resources, it is more likely to specialize in the production of agricultural goods. Conversely, if another country has a comparative advantage in manufacturing due to its surplus of capital and skilled labor, it will produce manufactured goods more efficiently.

The relative abundance of resources is what drives the specialization and trade patterns between countries, as they seek to optimize their use of available resources.

Now, let’s examine why the other options are not correct:

(a) Economies of large-scale production:

The concept of economies of large-scale production, often referred to as economies of scale, is a valid factor in international trade and can impact a country’s competitiveness in certain industries. However, the Heckscher-Ohlin theory does not primarily explain comparative advantage based on economies of scale.

Instead, it emphasizes the relative abundance of resources as the key determinant of comparative advantage. While economies of scale can affect production costs, they are not the central principle of the Heckscher-Ohlin theory.

(c) Relative costs of labor:

The relative costs of labor can influence the competitiveness of industries in different countries, but it is not the main focus of the Heckscher-Ohlin theory. This theory is more concerned with the role of resource endowments, including labor, capital, and natural resources, in shaping comparative advantage.

While differences in labor costs can be a factor, the theory takes a broader view by considering all resources, not just labor, in explaining trade patterns.

(d) Research and development expenditures:

Research and development expenditures are important for innovation and technological advancement, which can influence a country’s competitiveness in certain industries. However, the Heckscher-Ohlin theory does not directly address research and development expenditures as the primary driver of comparative advantage.

This theory centers on the relative abundance of resources as the primary determinant of trade patterns, while research and development considerations are more relevant in explaining technological advancements and their impact on specific industries.

In summary, the Heckscher-Ohlin theory correctly explains comparative advantage as the result of differences in the relative abundance of various resources among countries. It is based on the idea that countries will specialize in producing goods that make efficient use of the resources they possess in abundance.

While other factors like economies of scale, labor costs, and research and development are important in international trade, they are not the central focus of the Heckscher-Ohlin theory, which places resource endowments at the core of its explanation of comparative advantage.