What could lead to a shift in supply?

A shift in supply refers to a change in the quantity of a good or service that producers are willing to sell at various price levels, which is typically caused by external factors affecting production. Changes in production costs can significantly influence supply because when production costs decrease (for example, due to lower raw material prices or improved technology), it becomes cheaper for businesses to produce goods. This incentivizes producers to increase supply, leading to a rightward shift in the supply curve. Conversely, if production costs rise, the opposite effect occurs, resulting in a leftward shift in the supply curve as production becomes less profitable.

Understanding the role of production costs is crucial since they directly impact the willingness and ability of businesses to produce goods. If production becomes more efficient or cheaper for any reason, it can encourage firms to increase their output, thereby shifting the supply curve to the right.