The introductory chapter acquaints the readers with the issue of international trade and the related external economic relations. It accentuates the importance of international trade for individual countries and the significant role it plays in terms of the global economy. The chapter also outlines the basic changes that international trade has undergone in recent years and that have significantly affected its development. In addition to the above, the text also points to the obstacles international trade has had to face during its existence, whether it is war conflicts, financial crises, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, or other sudden events (such as the blocking of the Suez Canal).