Final answer:
False. The claim that global merchandise exports were $18.8 trillion in 2013 is false, as it does not align with the provided context that the global economy produces over $30 trillion annually, and given the balance of trade figures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the level of merchandise exports in 2013, worldwide, was $18.8 trillion is false. The claim that global merchandise exports were $18.8 trillion in 2013 is false, as it does not align with the provided context that the global economy produces over $30 trillion annually, and given the balance of trade figures.
Given the context that the global economy produces more than $30 trillion of goods and services each year, a figure of $18.8 trillion in exports seems disproportionately high as trade typically represents a fraction of total economic production.
Additionally, the balance of trade and current account balance information provided suggests much lower numbers for both exports and imports, further indicating that the $18.8 trillion figure is likely incorrect for global merchandise exports in that year.