# Market Access Opportunity Cost

## Definition

The economic benefits foregone due to limited market access, including the inability to specialise, achieve economies of scale, or participate in broader exchange networks. Market access opportunity cost represents the price paid for geographical or political isolation from major markets.

## Source Chapter

Book I, Chapter 3

## Context

Smith illustrates market access opportunity cost through examples: the nailer who cannot dispose of one day's work per year, farmers who must perform all household tasks themselves, and regions that cannot develop industry due to isolation from major trade routes.

## Economic Domain

General Theory

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