After you set a path it will be used by the current shell. If you don't export that path, any programs you run from the current shell will inherit the PATH that existed when the current shell was started. This applies to other variables as well. When you export PATH or export VARIABLE in general, that variable is available in the environment of the programs you run from the current shell. I agree it can be confusing at first, but after you work with the concept a little while it will seem natural and logical.
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