Multiple choice

Directions: The short passage below is followed by a question based on its content. Answer the question on the basis of what is stated or implied in the passage.

The lesson for the rest of the world, especially India, is that there can be no 'free' trade with the US. America, the biggest champion of free trade for most part of the century is turning protectionist. The US continues still to be one of the most trade friendly countries in the world. But one thing is clear if India wishes to continue to have access to the American market, it will have to give concessions in return. The Chinese have fought for several months, surrendering a lot to the Americans. So long as you are a small fry in the world trade market responsible for a small fraction of American trade deficit or better still a net importer of US goods, you are safe. The big brother won't bully you. But the moment you are seen to be getting big, the axe will fall.

What is the theme of the passage?

  1. America is the biggest trading nation in the world and hence the most powerful.

  2. China has surrendered its economic sovereignty due to it large size whereas India has not.

  3. Americans have created an ambience of their own in the international market.

  4. Though America claims to be a champion of free trade, a nation's relations with it depend upon its size and might.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

The passage opens with a mention of the polices of the biggest champion of Free Trade and its turning protectionist. The last line mentions that a nation's relations with America depend upon its size and might. That means “Free trade is free for America until it hurts badly”. Hence the best answer is, therefore, option (4).

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