• Real exchange rate (RER) indicates a country’s trade competitiveness.
  • If RER is less than 1, domestic products are cheaper and more competitive.
  • If RER is greater than 1, domestic products are more expensive and less competitive.
  • When a currency appreciates in real terms, its trade becomes less competitive.
  • When a currency depreciates in real terms, its exports become more competitive.
  • RER helps understand the true cost of goods for international trade.