Instructor’s Manual
CHAPTER 8
REGIONAL TRADING AGREEMENTS
CHAPTER OVERVIEW
This chapter investigates the theoretical and empirical aspects of regional trading arrangements. The chapter
begins by discussing the nature and stages of economic integration: (1) free trade area, (2) customs union, (3)
common market, (4) economic union, and (5) monetary union.
Of particular importance are the economic effects of a regional trading arrangement. The chapter analyzes the
short-run effects of trade creation and trade diversion. Next are the long-run effects which include economies of
scale, competition, and stimulus of investment.
BRIEF ANSWERS TO STUDY QUESTIONS
1. The General Agreements on Tariffs and Trade represent trade liberalization on a nondiscriminatory basis.
2. Economic integration refers to the process of eliminating restrictions on international trade, payments, and
3. The formation of a customs union results in static, or once-and-for-all, welfare effects. Included is a