Economist: In 2015, the average per-person amount paid for goods and services purchased by consumer in Country X was the equivalent of $17, 570 in United States dollars, just 30 percent of the corresponding figure of $58, 566 for Country Y. Yet in 2015, there was already a substantial middle class in Country X that had discretionary income for middle-class consumer goods such as new vehicles, computers, or major household appliances, while a significant portion of the middle class in Country Y did not have sufficient income to purchase such items. Which of the following, if true, most helps explain the discrepancy in the relationships described by the economist?
A: The economy of Country Y is recovering from a downturn that affected both Country Y and Country X.
B: There are many consumer goods, such as household appliances, that are produced in Country X to be sold in the Country Y market.
C: The volume of trade between Country X and Country Y is increasing rapidly in both directions.
D: Country X residents pay much less than their Country Y counterparts for housing, transportation, and child care.
Choose A, B, C or D as your solution.
D