IELTS Band 9 Essay About Developing countries should be encouraged to implement high tariffs
Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “Developing countries should be encouraged to implement high tariffs”. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 100 band 9 IELTS samples released in April 2025.
Sample Essay (Band 9)
Developing countries should be encouraged to implement high tariffs to grow their local industries. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
In the context of globalization, whether developing nations should impose high tariffs to protect and stimulate local industries remains a contentious issue. While some argue that such measures can foster economic growth, I contend that over-reliance on tariffs may lead to inefficiency, and that a more balanced approach is required.
On the one hand, implementing high tariffs can be a strategic move for nascent industries in developing countries. These industries often lack the capacity to compete with well-established multinational corporations. By shielding them from external competition, governments can create a nurturing environment that allows local businesses to expand, improve productivity, and generate employment. Historical precedents, such as South Korea and Japan in the mid-20th century, suggest that temporary protectionism can lead to long-term industrial advancement. In this sense, tariffs can serve as an important instrument in the early stages of industrialization.
However, high tariffs can also result in unintended consequences. First, they may lead to a lack of competitive pressure, which can hinder innovation and lead to complacency. Domestic producers, assured of market dominance, may have little incentive to enhance quality or reduce costs. Moreover, tariffs can raise the prices of imported goods, burdening consumers—especially those from low-income backgrounds. In extreme cases, excessive protectionism can isolate a country economically, stifling trade relations and foreign investment.
It is also important to consider the global economic landscape, which increasingly values open markets and international cooperation. For developing countries, integrating into global supply chains can offer greater benefits than isolationist policies. A more sustainable solution would be to adopt moderate tariffs in conjunction with other supportive policies such as investment in education, infrastructure, and innovation. These measures can strengthen local industries without distorting market dynamics.
In conclusion, while high tariffs can offer short-term support to emerging industries, their long-term implications must be carefully evaluated. A calibrated approach that combines selective protection with broader economic reforms is more likely to yield enduring prosperity for developing nations.
Five Academic words in the sample for Developing countries should be encouraged to implement high tariffs
Strategic /strəˈtiː.dʒɪk/
The company took a strategic decision to invest in renewable energy.Over-reliance /ˌəʊ.və.rɪˈlaɪ.əns/
Over-reliance on foreign aid can hinder a country’s self-sufficiency.Balanced /ˈbæl.ənst/
A balanced diet is essential for maintaining good health.Consequences /ˈkɒn.sɪ.kwənsɪz/
The consequences of climate change are becoming more severe each year.Stifling /ˈstaɪ.flɪŋ/
The strict regulations are stifling innovation in the tech sector.
Five Advanced Grammatical Structures
Reduced Relative Clauses
Example: “…industries lacking the capacity to compete…”
→ This concise structure makes the writing more formal and academic.Cleft Sentence for Emphasis
Example: “It is also important to consider the global economic landscape…”
→ Helps emphasize key points, giving clarity and focus to arguments.Complex Sentences with Subordination
Example: “While high tariffs can offer short-term support, their long-term implications must be carefully evaluated.”
→ This structure shows the ability to handle multiple ideas in one sentence, improving coherence.Passive Voice
Example: “…must be carefully evaluated.”
→ Adds formality and shifts focus to the action rather than the actor, which is common in academic writing.Use of Modal Verbs for Caution and Recommendation
Example: “…tariffs can raise the prices of imported goods…”
→ Expresses possibility and avoids overgeneralization, showing balanced argumentation.
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