Question

Why do most countries both export and import goods?

to eliminate competition from other economies
to decrease the production of goods domestically
to rely entirely on foreign economies
to get a good mix of goods and services

Answer 1

to get a good mix of goods and services

Most countries export what they can produce efficiently and import what is cheaper, unavailable, or of better quality elsewhere. Trade lets countries specialize (comparative advantage), access resources and variety, and raise overall welfare—not eliminate competition or abandon domestic production.