What is the main consequence of imposing quotas on imported goods?

Imposing quotas on imported goods is primarily intended to limit the quantity of those goods that can enter a country. This restriction leads to a lower overall supply of the imported goods available in the domestic market because once the quota is filled, no additional imports of that specific product can occur until the next quota period.

When the supply of goods is reduced while demand remains constant, prices typically rise. This is due to the basic principles of supply and demand; a decrease in supply with steady demand leads to scarcity, and therefore, consumers are often willing to pay more to obtain the limited goods. As a result, consumers face higher prices, making this consequence a characteristic result of quota imposition.

In contrast, options like an increase in global trade or promotion of free trade would not occur under a quota system, as quotas are actually barriers to trade that hinder the free flow of goods. Additionally, a higher supply of goods would contradict the nature of quotas, which are designed to limit supply, not increase it. Therefore, the correct statement concerning the primary consequence of imposing quotas is indeed the lowering of supply alongside the resulting increase in prices.