International trade impacts local economies by providing access to larger markets, enhancing competitiveness, and creating job opportunities. Local businesses can expand by exporting goods, which can lead to increased revenue and economic growth. However, trade can also pose challenges, such as exposing local industries to global competition, which may threaten small businesses. Additionally, trade policies can affect local employment patterns and wage levels, as shifts in demand and supply dynamics occur. Thus, international trade plays a dual role in shaping local economic landscapes.