Currency devaluation is an adjustment to a country’s exchange rate in which a lower value for the local currency makes foreign goods cheaper. This can occur due to market forces or a direct government intervention.
Devaluation can be a powerful tool for countries looking to boost their exports and reduce imports. It can also create inflationary pressures in domestic markets, affecting consumers’ purchasing power. It can even deter foreign investment, especially if it’s followed by economic instability or high inflation.
Some reasons a country might want to devalue its currency:
Exports become more competitive in global markets. For example, if a country’s currency depreciates, Chinese products might receive more demand in the US because it costs Americans less money to buy them. This can stimulate the economy by encouraging more production and creating more jobs in the country. In addition, devaluation can increase tourism, since it makes the country appear more affordable to visitors from other countries. It can also attract remittances, as it makes money sent home by workers abroad more valuable in the domestic currency.