What is 'economic integration'?

Economic integration refers to an arrangement among various regions or countries aimed at enhancing trade and economic growth by removing trade barriers. This process can take multiple forms, including free trade agreements, customs unions, and common markets, which all serve to facilitate seamless exchange of goods and services across borders. By eliminating tariffs, quotas, and other restrictions, economic integration promotes a more interconnected global marketplace, contributing to greater efficiency, increased competitiveness, and the overall enhancement of economic prosperity among the participating nations.

The focus on enhancing trade and economic growth highlights the primary goal of economic integration, which is to create a more conducive environment for business and commerce on an international scale. The other options do not capture the essence of economic integration; for instance, the idea of becoming less dependent on each other contradicts the notion of collaboration and mutual benefit inherent in economic integration.