Final answer:
The last five years have shown significant changes in exports, imports, movement of people, and FDI due to factors such as relative economic growth, changes in prices between countries, and exchange rate movements. Trade deficits have been common when imports exceed exports, yet economic resilience is evident in the recovery post-Great Recession.
Step-by-step explanation:
The last five years have seen various global economic variables impacting exports, imports, the movement of people, and foreign direct investment (FDI). In the United States, historically, imports have exceeded exports, leading to trade deficits, particularly noticeable in the late 1990s and mid-2000s. Post the Great Recession, both imports and exports have recovered, showing substantial growth signaling economic resilience. Higher domestic income levels have a direct correlation with increased imports reflecting an economy's consumption capabilities.
Relative growth rates and price changes between countries can shift export and import demands. For instance, a recession in countries like Canada, Japan, and Germany, which are significant importers of American products, can result in decreased U.S. exports. Conversely, strong domestic economic performance often results in increased import quantities. Additionally, the movement of people has been influenced by global economic health, politics, and policy changes, while FDI is affected by variables including relative economic stability and exchange rate movements.