Main Economics

8-3 Short Paper: Free Trade

There are some 200 economic integration agreements in effect around the world already, far more than even a few years ago. Virtually every country is now party to one or more free trade agreements. Supporters argue that free trade is good for nations.

• What is the basis for their support? That is, what are the specific benefits that countries seek by joining an economic bloc?
• What is the main economic bloc for your country?
• From your perspective, what advantages has bloc membership brought to your country?
• What disadvantages has bloc membership produced?

Write a short paper outlining your perspectives on this topic.