What is a trade surplus?

A trade surplus occurs when a country's exports, or the goods and services it sells to other countries, exceed its imports, or the goods and services it purchases from other countries. This scenario indicates a positive balance of trade, meaning that the country is selling more than it is buying on the international market.

Having a trade surplus can be advantageous for a country, as it may lead to an influx of foreign currency and potentially improve the nation's economic standing. It can also mean that local industries are thriving and competitive in the global marketplace. This understanding provides a clear context for the concept of trade surplus and its significance in international trade.

The other options address different concepts related to trade but do not define a trade surplus accurately. For example, a condition where imports exceed exports refers to a trade deficit, while agreements to limit exports relate to trade policies and tariffs, which are distinct from the concept of trade balances.